Skip to main content

Sisi grants army more powers under state of emergency

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi approved new amendments to the emergency law, granting the army the right to arrest and prosecute civilians in clear violation of the constitution and the law, according to human rights activists.
RTR4RLX0.JPG

CAIRO — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has ratified amendments to the country’s Emergency Law, granting the armed forces the power of judicial oversight across all governorates, which means the army now has the right to arrest and investigate with citizens before the military prosecution — powers previously limited to the country’s law enforcement officers (security forces) and the public prosecution.

The amendments, which were published in the Official Gazette May 7, also expanded Sisi’s prerogatives, including more decision-making powers such as suspending classes at schools and universities, postponing tax payments and amending official working hours across the country during the state of emergency.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.