Egyptian Military Removes President Morsi, Suspends Constitution

Egyptian Military Removes President Morsi, Suspends Constitution

By Rev. Daniel Matthews, M.Div.

January 30, 2025 at 12:02 PM

Egypt's President Morsi Ousted by Military Amid Mass Protests

The Egyptian army removed President Mohammed Morsi from power on July 3, 2013, following days of massive protests on his first anniversary in office. General Abdul Fattah al-Sisi announced the suspension of the constitution and transfer of presidential powers to the chief justice of the constitutional court.

Cairo protesters gather in Tahrir Square

Cairo protesters gather in Tahrir Square

The military's intervention came after a 48-hour ultimatum given to Morsi to meet the demands of millions of protesters who had filled Egypt's streets. The Muslim Brotherhood's year in power had been marked by growing public dissatisfaction and political turmoil.

Key Developments:

  • Constitution suspended
  • Chief justice appointed as interim leader
  • Military established new political roadmap
  • Anti-Morsi protesters celebrated the announcement
  • Muslim Brotherhood called for non-violent resistance

Before his removal, Morsi had refused to step down, stating he would rather die "standing straight like a tree" than destroy Egypt's democracy. While the Muslim Brotherhood urged peaceful opposition to the military takeover, Salafist groups called for more aggressive resistance.

The situation remains tense with concerns about potential civil unrest and the future of democracy in Egypt. The military's presence in major cities aims to maintain order, but questions remain about the country's political stability and path forward.

The developments in Egypt continue to have significant implications for regional stability and international relations in the Middle East, marking a critical moment in the country's post-Arab Spring trajectory.

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