Egypt refuses to license Muslim Brotherhood separatist party

The "Parties Committee" authorized to license parties in Egypt refused an application to found "The Egyptian al-Wasat Party" comprised of separatists from the Muslim Brotherhood.

The party was established by Abu al-Ola Madi who said his party pursues a moderate attitude. He said his party is open to Muslims and Copts alike and that among its founders are three male and 15 female Copts.

Madi, for whom the committee refused a previous licensing application for his party two years earlier, said he intends to complain before the parties court which comprises 14 members, half of them state consultants and others high-ranking pro-government employees.