Over 20 Egyptian human rights groups have rejected the proposed constitution, days before it is put to referendum, citing the lack of reference to international human rights treaties to which Egypt is signatory. The groups released a statement on Monday to coincide with International Human Rights Day, claiming that the draft allows religious and political tyranny, as well as assaults on human rights. They claim that human rights were more protected in the former constitution than in the current draft which limits freedom of expression, freedom of the press and free flow of information. The organisations criticised the president for holding a referendum on a constitution that does not have broad consensus, despite President Mohamed Morsy having vowed he would not. The groups have also expressed concern over the powers that the president was granted in the draft. “The current draft grants the president authorities that are no less autocratic than those enjoyed by [former President] Hosni Mubarak," the statement read. The statement which was signed by 23 organiations including the Hisham Mubarak Law Center and the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights. It was released days ahead of the 15 December referendum on the final draft constitution. The National Salvation Front (NSF), the largest opposition bloc, released a statement on Sunday night announcing opposition to the draft which, it alleges, is non-consensual, consecrates presidential tyranny and devastates social and political rights. The NSF rejects the referendum as well and claims it will lead to further polarisation among the public. Since its release to the public, the draft constitution has been criticised by experts, activists, and even former Constituent Assembly members. Several political parties, including Al-Dostour Party, have launched other campaigns, pointing out the flaws in the constitution and encouraging people to vote “no." The Freedom and Justice Party has launched a campaign urging people to vote “yes", claiming that the constitution will bring about stability.
