Abdel-Moneim Abdel-Maksoud: Brotherhood Legal Since 1928.

Abdel-Moneim Abdel-Maksoud, Muslim Brotherhood (MB) lawyer, said that, ever since its inception in March 1928, the group insisted on acquiring legitimacy under Egyptian law. He pointed out that the MB originated under the provisions of law as well as recognized constitutional provisions. It was established, from the outset, as a fully legal entity. It was never, at any time, in violation of the provisions of the law.

During an interview in the program ‘Hona Al-Assima’ on the satellite channel ‘CBC’, Abdel-Maksoud said that when the group applied for registration, to the Egyptian judiciary, there was a legal debate about the MB’s activities, goals and objectives. Eventually, the judiciary confirmed, in no ambiguous terms, that the group had been granted legal status that cannot be impugned, stripped off or withdrawn, and that the right of association was guaranteed by the Constitution for all citizens.

On the MB’s legal cover, Abdel-Maksoud said, “The Egyptian judiciary confirmed that the Muslim Brotherhood is an Islamic establishment and a group, not a limited type of ‘Society’, and that it gained its moral character due to its formation on the basis of established principles, and that if the group violated any laws, judicial authorities should intervene”.

Further, Abdel-Maksoud pointed out that there are a number of laws that govern the MB’s affairs. For example, with regard to charitable activities, it is governed by the law of charitable association; while, for its political activities, it is governed by the law of political parties.

In conclusion, Abdel-Maksoud said, “What we want to emphasize, now, is that as the group originated and formulated its character, it gained legitimacy from an essential, comprehensive legal system.