The Coalition of the 25 January Revolution Youth has declared it will vote against the constitutional amendments that will be subject to a referendum on Saturday 19 March. The coalition comprises several independent and partisan political activist groups. It was formed during the 25 January uprising that led to the ouster of former President Hosni Mubarak in February. A statement by the coalition, a copy of which was obtained by Al-Masry Al-Youm, said the demands voiced through the uprising are non-negotiable. They called for a constitutional declaration that sets measures for running the transitional period. It also suggested the formation of a triple-chaired civilian presidential council, with one of the heads being from the military, to run the country before holding parliamentary and presidential elections. The same statement stressed the need to form a panel to formulate a new constitution and amend affiliate laws on the formation of political parties, the exercise of political rights, and the laws on parliament. The coalition demanded the dissolution of the Shura Council, Egypt's upper chamber of legislation, arguing that it does not play an effective role in political life. Several political groups also rejected the amendments as a patchwork for a defunct constitution, demanding a new one instead. The Musilm Brotherhood and the formerly-ruling National Democratic Party are the only major political entities to approve of the amendments. Translated from the Arabic Edition
