By – POMED
U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) issued a statement yesterday regarding the dismissal of MP Mohamed Anwar al-Sadat from Parliament. McCain stated that al-Sadat’s “dismissal appears to be part of an organized campaign against [him] for his criticism of the recent NGO draft law and discussion of budgetary concerns during Egypt’s economic difficulties – all actions that fall squarely in the responsibilities of a parliamentarian” and referred to al-Sadat as “an important advocate for human rights in Egypt.” McCain also argued that “this decision reveals an environment hostile to legitimate political debate and discussion in Egypt and threatens the principles of institutional independence and checks and balances that are the hallmark of democratic governance.”
Osama El-Ghazali Harb, a founder of Egypt’s left-leaning Democratic Front Party, also penned an opinion piece [Ar] in Al-Ahram regarding al-Sadat’s expulsion. Harb suggests that the international community may see al-Sadat’s expulsion as retaliation for his objections to lavish parliamentary spending, rather than the ethics allegations brought against him. As a result, the West views the move as undermining Egyptian democracy. Harb also “[salutes] the few brave MPs who stood against the resolution” and questions why the 25-30 bloc chose to skip the vote.
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