Constitutions may need to be amended to cope with challenges: MP Azer

CAIRO – 9 April 2019: Many Egyptian citizens residing in the U.S. reiterated their support to the proposed constitutional amendments, lauding the societal dialogue held between different sectors of Egyptians. They called on Egyptians to vote in the planned referendum on these amendments.

If the amendments are approved, presidential terms in general will be extended to six years instead of four for each of the two terms, while the incumbent president will be allowed to run for a third exceptional term. Also, heads of the judicial bodies would be appointed by the president.


Many Egyptian citizens residing in the U.S., besides media personnel and prominent figures have reiterated their support to the proposed constitutional amendments - Press photo

In a seminar attended by a large number of the Egyptian expats in a hotel in Washington, MP Margaret Azer said that the Egyptian Constitution, like other constitutions in other countries, may need amendments to cope with the events and necessities imposed by the challenges facing the state.

She said that people will determine whether the amendments will be passed or rejected through a planned referendum.


Many Egyptian citizens residing in the U.S., besides media personnel and prominent figures have reiterated their support to the proposed constitutional amendments - Press photo

She noted that the era of President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi is the golden age for Egyptian women, as the president keeps on affirming the importance of empowering women and young people in his speeches.

Concerning an amendment bringing back the Shura Council formerly dissolved, Azer said that the presence of such council is important as it has a necessary role. She added that the council will not add additional cost to the state, especially as the employees of the Shura Council joined the House of Representatives earlier and will now return to work in the Shura Council.

Karam Gabr, head of Egypt's National Press Authority, said that the proposed constitutional amendments coincide with the stage of building the Egyptian state.

He added that the modern Egyptian experience will continue because it is not involved in any conflicts, and does not aim at expanding abroad, as the era of Muhammad Ali Pasha of Egypt. He added that the aim is to develop the country from inside and to work towards the future.

The Egyptian army protects the country and fights the battle of survival and construction, Gabr said, adding that the attempts to destroy the country will not succeed because the Egyptians appreciate their Armed Forces.

Moreover, Abdel Mohsen Salama, former head of the Press Syndicate, said that the amendments of the constitution are a usual procedure, adding that it happens in countries around the world, such as France and Turkey.

Salama said that the constitution is not a sacred book, pointing out that there is an educational revolution in Egypt, and a revolution in all fields, adding that those who visit Egypt now will feel great difference.

Renowned TV presenter Nashat al-Dihy said that the constitution has to be amended as the current one is no more appropriate for the situation of the country. He noted that the amendments will help empower women and youth.

Dihy said that the Muslim Brotherhood group's influence was eliminated only under President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi because he faced them sincerely.



Youssef Ayoub, editor-in-chief of Sout al-Omma, thanked the Egyptian community in the United States for exerting great efforts to support their country.

Ayoub addressed Egyptians, calling on them to vote in the planned referendum on the constitutional amendments, adding that acting negatively paved the way for the Muslim Brotherhood to rule the country in 2012.

What to know about Egypt's constitutional amendment process

CAIRO - 6 February 2019: The process to amend the constitution involves the House of Representatives, and the people who is expected to participate in the referendum to be held few months from now. Below are the details of measures to be taken.