Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi has amended controversial decree in which he had assumed sweeping powers to oversee the country's political transition.
Prime Minister Hisham Qandil while addressing to people and media through a Television Channel said, "Morsi tasked six officials, who met on Saturday with elements of the opposition, to 'modify the constitutional declaration' he issued on 22 November".
"The officials, among them politicians and members of the judiciary, 'met to draft a new text [decree] and could finalise it late on Saturday or on Sunday morning'", he added.
Morsi has also agreed to delay the referendum. Qandil said, "President Morsi and the country's political forces are discussing legal ways to delay the referendum. The president does not object to a postponement of the vote".
On 22nd November, Morsi passed a decree that stripped the judiciary of any right to challenge his decisions. The new draft charter was approved only by an Islamist-dominated panel but was boycotted by liberals and Christians.
Morsi also declared to hold a nationwide referendum on the new Constitution on Dec 15.
It triggered violent protests on the streets of Cairo. Opposition objected on the grounds that it limits freedom of expression, women's rights and freedom of worship. They have been rallying against the constitutional declaration.
Opposition leaders have said they will only take part in talks if the referendum is postponed and Morsi repeals his decree.
(With inputs from ANI and IANS)
|
|
Comments:
