MP refuses increasing criticism

Egyptian parliamentarian Kamal Amer expressed his astonishment over the increasing criticism against the parliament over the discussion of the agreement concluded between Egypt and Saudi Arabia to determine maritime boundaries. He stressed that the decision taken by the parliament came after well-consideration.

He added that he understands the increasing number of opponents to the agreement, saying that it is normal for each parliamentarian to take the decision in which he believes over the agreement

He added, in an interview with “Arabs Today”, that the parliament did not take any hasty steps to pass the agreement, while the committees were keen to consider documents and to hold deep discussions with the country’s officials to take the final decision. He blamed those people who accused the parliamentarians of treason, saying that they attempt to pressure the parliament to take the decision they want.

He added that the people should deal with the parliament as the legislative authority that has the right to take any decisions in this regard, saying that the decision scheduled to be taken by the parliament will be based on data and opinions of experts in addition to formal documents.

Egyptian MP Kamal Amer, the head of parliament's national security and defence committee, proposed on Tuesday amending the penal code to toughen penalties on those convicted of insulting the president of the republic and other senior state officials.

Amer, a former head of Egypt's military intelligence, said his draft law aims to stem the tide of insults directed at the president and other state officials and authorities by some television channels and newspapers.

Amer said that Article 179 would be amended to state that those convicted of insulting the president would face a prison sentence ranging from 24 hours to three years and a fine between EGP 50,000 and EGP 100,000.

Article 184 would be amended to state that those convicted of insulting parliament or any of the country's sovereign state authorities like the army, judicial courts, public authorities or any state symbol would face prison and a fine between EGP 50,000 and EGP 100,000.