A new decree giving Egypt’s armed forces new powers to preserve security ahead of the referendum on a new constitution was prompted by the country’s Central Election Commission, a presidential spokesman said Monday responding to claims that Morsi used to oppose army’s involvement in providing for the presidential election security.
The decree enables the army to cooperate with police to preserve security and protect vital state institutions during the referendum scheduled for December 15.
Egyptian President Muhammed Morsi has ordered the military to help the police in enforcing law and order in the period before the outcome of next weekend’s constitutional referendum becomes known.
He has also revoked announced tax hikes.
Formal decrees about this are expected to be published on Tuesday.
Tuesday is also expected to see more mass protests against the proposed constitution.
Voice of Russia, RIA Novosti, Interfax
