Restricted term for Egyptian Presidents proposed

Cairo, Feb 27: "Once bitten twice shy", is what the political developments in Egypt represent. After having Hosni Mubarak as President for 30 years straight, the new constitutional amendments will ensure that henceforth the country's future presidents will only be allowed a maximum tenure of eight years.

A judicial committee appointed by Egypt's military regime has put forth these proposed amendments which will now go through a referendum before the parliamentary and presidential elections are held.

The current military regime wrested power from Mubarak after a popular uprising against his 30-year long rule. Aided by the usage of social networking sites, an entire generation of Egyptians stormed the Tahrir square demanding an immediate end to Mubarak's reign. A defiant Mubarak was then ousted by the army, albeit in a peaceful manner.

Under the present provisions of the Egyptian constitution, it is nearly impossible for opposition parties to challenge the incumbent president.

While leaders cutting across party-lines have welcomed the move, but analysts say that the proposed eight-year term may be something that would be debated upon.

OneIndia News