Egypt

Qandil: Reformists should turn to ballot box

Prime Minister Hesham Qandil said Tuesday those demanding reform in Egypt should turn to the ballot box.

Those able to gather voices for change should use them in elections to achieve a pro-reform majority, he said.

Qandil’s statements came as opponents of Egypt's groundswelll Tamarod ("rebel") campaign continues to collect signatures for its petition withdrawing confidence in President Mohamed Morsy and demanding early presidential elections.

Both opposition and Islamist groups will rally on the anniversary of Morsy's first year in office.

In his speech during the opening of the Deauville Partnership regional forum, Qandil said that Egypt is making steady progress through democratic transition, pointing to the Shura Council signing off on its parliamentary election draft law, which has been amended and submitted to the Supreme Constitutional Court (SCC) for approval.

Qandil hoped the bill would become law soon.

Once the SCC approves the law, Qandil claimed, a new prime minister with brtoad powers similar to the president's could be appointed.

Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm

Related Articles

Back to top button