Egypt’s opposition to boycott Morsi’s referendum

On Sunday Egypt’s opposition, National Salvation Front (NSF), announced its refusal to take part in the referendum over the disputed draft constitution and called for more protests on Tuesday.

Although on Saturday President Morsi revoked part of the controversial decree that gave him sweeping powers, he insisted that the referendum on 15^th December on a new constitution would go ahead as planned.

“We reject the referendum which will lead to more division and sedition,” said opposition spokesman Samed Achour.

He insisted that they would not recognise the draft “because the constitution does not represent the Egyptian people”. He went on to deem the referendum as “grossly irresponsible”.

According to the opposition, the new constitution would lead the way to a reinforcement of the role of religion within the law and would provide little protection for human rights.

Front activists have urged President Morsi to postpone the draft and hold talks to overhaul the constitution. However, Morsi’s supporters have insisted that the referendum cannot be deferred because the law stipulates that it must take place two weeks after the legal text has been handed to the President, a move that was made on 1^st December.

On Sunday, they held marches near the Muslim Brotherhood headquarters to show their support to President Morsi and a “yes” vote for the referendum.  

Amid fear of opposition protest, President Morsi has ordered the military to maintain a high presence around the presidential palace until the referendum results are released.

Laetitia Woué