Concerning a new constitution, which is more important: the
process or the content? In Egypt in 2012, that most secularists and the Coptic
Christian representatives walked out of the assembly working on a constitutional document
suggests that the final product would not have legitimacy for all of Egypt. To be sure, it is possible
for a partisan group to design a system of basic law that is not overtly
self-serving at others’ expense. The document that emerged from the assembly
weakens the presidency and strengthens the parliament. This shift was in line with the popular
protest in “the Arab Spring.” However, the assembly left in place a
“longstanding article” grounding Egyptian law in the principles of one
religion. Furthermore, a provision on women’s equality was left out, and the
military generals would keep their existing power. Moreover, anticipating
dissolution from Mubarak-appointed judges, the assembly began its work from the
last Egyptian constitution.
Do the members of the constitutional assembly look liberal or conservative? Reuters
The full essay is at "How to Make a Constitution."
