Disputed articles in Egypt's draft constitution

By The Associated Press

CAIRO (AP) — An Islamist-dominated panel is voting on Egypt's draft constitution, the country's first charter after the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak. The draft largely reflects the conservative vision of the Islamists, with articles that rights activists, liberals and others fear will lead to restrictions on the rights of women and minorities and civil liberties in general.

Here are some of the disputed articles:

— As in past constitutions, the new draft says that the "principles of Islamic law" will be the basis of law. But a new article states that Egypt's most respected Islamic institution, Al-Azhar, must be consulted on any matters related to Shariah, or Islamic law, a measure critics fear will lead to oversight of legislation by clerics.

— Another article underlines that the state will protect "the true nature of the Egyptian family ... and promote its morals and values," phrasing that is vague and suggests state control over the contents of such arts forms as books and films.

— The draft contains no article specifically establishing equality between men and women because of disputes over the phrasing. However, it maintains that a woman must balance her duties toward family and outside work, suggesting that she can be held accountable if her public role conflicts with her family duties. No such article is mentioned for men.

— Another article bans insults to or defamation of the prophet and messengers, but is vague about what constitutes an insult, raising concerns of restrictions to freedom of expression.

— One article maintains that the state supports the arts, science and literature, and works to implement them in a way that serves society. That has raised concerns that some arts deemed not in the service of society may be restricted or censored.

2012-11-29 20:42:10 GMT