Whether democracy is the right system of government for us is not in question. No one in this country is willing to dispute the merits of democratic government. But some, including myself, contend that the concept of democracy must be adapted to suit the nature of this country. Democracy is not a set formula. It is a tradition that developed over a long period of time, through the contributions of many nations. Far from being a formalised practice, democracy must have a core to revolve around, a philosophy to take into account. We cannot allow the formulaic practice of democracy to mask the dictatorial instincts of one regime or another. To come up with a national understanding of democracy, we have to acknowledge the fact that Egypt is an extraordinary country, one that draws upon a variety of civilisations, from the Pharaonic and Coptic to the Islamic and Arab, with African and Asian influences thrown in. Egypt boasts a rich economic and political heritage, one that revolves around the concept of justice, one that can reinforce the ideals of democracy. This doesn't mean that we can turn our backs on the common principles of humanity or the basic criteria of democracy. Our perception of these ideals, of our needs, and of the innate aspirations of all our social groups will define the nature of our nascent democracy. Culture is a key element in addressing the question of democracy. Our problems are not about the procedure as such, but about the nuanced approach to the questions involved. So, while keeping track of the formulaic aspects of democracy, let's not lose sight of the end results. There is no point in applying a legal rule that is democratic in appearance but undemocratic in substance. Sabotaging the practice of democracy is not in anybody's favour. Democracy must have a separation of powers, checks and balances, fair elections, rule by the majority, and respect for the rights of minorities. But these are not enough. For our democracy to work out, we will have to abide by the following principles: - The independence of our national will: We must remain independent, for no democracy can survive in a country that has lost its political or economic independence. - Consensus on the basic ideals of society: Our culture is one that integrates societal customs as well as the ideals of Islam and Christianity. There is no denying that religion plays a major role in our cultural and moral fabric. And trusting in the religious morals of our people, acknowledging the morals that have become a part of our national fabric, may be of help. Theocracy, however, must be ruled out at all costs. We cannot allow the clerics — or groups that aspire for clerical duty — to acquire exceptional political powers. Meanwhile, we cannot allow the structure, system, and policies of the state to challenge the basic tenants of Islam. - Recognition of the Other: We have to embrace political and intellectual tolerance and uphold the principles of equality. No discrimination is to be allowed on the basis of religion, sex, ethnic origin, place of birth, etc. We must fight all forms of sectarianism and assert national unity. We must keep religious institutions away from politics and make sure that they are led by trustworthy people. Key clerics must not be allowed to take up political posts while serving religious functions. We must also protect religious beliefs from sarcasm and insults, without sacrificing the rights of free speech and creativity. - Economic and social progress: No democracy will survive if the nation fails to achieve a modicum of progress in the economic, social and cultural fields. We must strive to eliminate poverty and backwardness. - Rule by the people: We must abide by the basic ideals of democracy, inside and outside parliament. We must encourage citizens and parties and various organisations to engage in decision-making. A certain level of direct democracy is essential for the smooth functioning of society. We must make sure that policies are in harmony with what the average people think. The representatives of the nation must remain in touch with their constituencies, and they must remain accountable at all times.
The writer is an expert at the Bahrain Institute for Political Development.
