Constitutional revision in Egypt
Despite broad disagreement that culminated in a boycott by some politicians, Egypt's parliament has agreed on a series of constitutional amendments (al-Jazeera) that some critics view as a consolidation of government power and an erosion of liberties.
The amendments - promoted as reforms but termed by rights groups as an erosion of liberties - were passed late on Monday, before a national referendum which has been postponed until March 26.
Fathi Sorour, the speaker of parliament, said: "The constitutional majority needed for passage has been achieved."
Sorour said 315 members of the 454-seat lower house of parliament had voted in favour.
The amendments - promoted as reforms but termed by rights groups as an erosion of liberties - were passed late on Monday, before a national referendum which has been postponed until March 26.
Fathi Sorour, the speaker of parliament, said: "The constitutional majority needed for passage has been achieved."
Sorour said 315 members of the 454-seat lower house of parliament had voted in favour.