Mubarak urged vote for the constitutional amendments
Egypt, Politics, 3/26/2007

Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak yesterday addressed the nation on the occasion of the referendum on constitutional amendments to be voted on saying these amendments are a historic step changing the face of the political life in Egypt, opening the road before democracy, providing wider horizons for our party and parliamentary life, cutting the road before trading in religion in politics, maintaining the security and stability of the homeland, protecting the nation against the risks of terrorism and putting an end to practicing political activity outside legitimacy.

In a speech on the occasion of today's referendum on Constitutional amendments, President Mubarak affirmed that the referendum would be a vote on the future of the homeland and that the result of referendum would reflect on the national march for decades to come.

He said fateful changes in the history of nations are only possible through the free will of the people.

As a president of the republic and as an Egyptian citizen, I call upon you to express such a will and participate in making the future of our homeland, Mubarak said.

The constitutional amendments represent a historic step changing the face of political life in Egypt and opening new doors to democratic practice, Mubarak said.

They also reflect the reality of our society with its political, economic and social transformations, Mubarak said.

The rule of the people and by the people will be further enhanced by the amendments, Mubarak added, affirming that the amendments would also entrench the principles of citizenship and equality among all Egyptians.

The amendments will help strike more balance between authorities and enhance the role and authority of the Egyptian parliament as regards monitoring the performance of the President and the Cabinet, Mubarak reiterated.

They will also create more opportunities for political parties and women to be represented in the parliament, he added.

The amendments will preempt any trading in religion and illegitimate political action and protect the homeland against terrorism, Mubarak said.

Minister of Information Anas Al-Fiqi yesterday said civil society organizations are welcome to participate in following up the referendum on constitutional amendments.

He said a neutral and objective media coverage of the voting process would help give the masses an inside look into all steps of this democratic process.

The Minister praised the would-be amendments saying that they will consolidate the concept of citizenship, strengthen the role of political parties, develop the system of judicial supervision on elections, expand the powers of the parliament, reduce the powers of the president, solidify the independence of the judiciary, end emergency laws, guarantee security to the citizen, enhance decentralization steps and reform the country's social and economic life.

Egyptians headed for the ballot Boxes early today to cast their votes in the referendum on constitutional amendments that cover 34 articles. The Washington Post reported today that "A trickle of Egyptians voted on Monday" and that "All major opposition groups including the influential Muslim Brotherhood told supporters to boycott the referendum, saying they cannot be sure the voting will be fair."

Previous Stories:
  US views on political development in Egypt   (3/20/2007)
  Anas El-Fiqi: Egyptian media is for all Egyptians   (3/20/2007)
  Egypt's People Assembly approves constitutional amendments   (3/20/2007)
  Egyptian Journalists fined, spared prison, for insulting the president   (3/6/2007)
  Concern Egypt new anti-terror law may infringe on rights   (2/21/2007)

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