• EGYPT
  • June 22, 2012
  • 4 minutes read

Heshmat: Military Council Copies Mubarak; Hinders Democratic Transition

Heshmat: Military Council Copies Mubarak; Hinders Democratic Transition

Dr. Gamal Heshmat, member of the Freedom and Justice Party (FJP)’s National Committee and deputy of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Egyptian People’s Assembly – currently in the middle of a constitutional controversy, denounced the statement issued by the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) on Friday, as massive demonstrations pervade Tahrir Square against it.

In its statement, interim ruling SCAF stressed the need to respect all principles of legitimacy, saying it stood at the same distance from all political parties and movements. It also said that the declaration of a constitutional supplement is a necessity imposed by the requirements of governing the country.

SCAF reiterated that it respects everyone’s right to peaceful demonstration; but called for restraint in the current revolutionary situation, in order to avoid damage and potential losses, adding that "SCAF will face with the utmost firmness any damage to private and public interests, through the police and the armed forces, as prescribed by the law".

Commenting on that statement, Dr. Heshmat told Ikhwanweb, "SCAF is repeating ousted Mubarak’s old statements, talking about things that it does not apply or adhere to.

"SCAF hinders democratization by declaring such an unconstitutional declaration which is quite simply an impediment to the next president’s work, and by restricting freedoms through emergency-law-like powers and procedures with which SCAF pits military police forces against the Egyptian people; not to mention SCAF’s encroachment on and total disrespect of the people’s will as it disbands the popularly elected Egyptian parliament, although SCAF has no legal basis that can possibly permit it to do so."

Dr. Heshmat rejected threats made by SCAF in its latest statements, stressing that the will of the Egyptian people who toppled the tyrant Mubarak will continue to reject any military tactics, maneuvers or actions aiming to frustrate the hopes of the people in establishing a true civil modern state.