History of the Egyptian Constitution

The Constitution of Egypt has passed over a long period of evolution from the liberal constitution of 1923 to the contemporary constitution.

Egypt is known for having one of the earliest administrative and legislative codes in history. Pharaonic civilization laid the groundwork in Egypt in terms of governance and management. The king or Pharaoh, at the top of the state hierarchy, appointed high-ranking government officials.

During the Islamic era, governance and legislation were principally drawn from the Holy Qur-ân and the Sunna, (or Traditions) of the Prophet based on the formula of consultation as one of the fundamental principles of Islamic law.

When Egypt became the capital of the Shi'ite Fatimid Caliphate (969-1171) governance and legislation developed. Furthermore, the city of Cairo became the capital of Egypt.

Throughout the era of the Ayubi state (1171–1250), the Citadel became the headquarters and the center of power. Legislative and judicial councils diversified, and there was a justice council and another to attend to complaints lodged. Their duties involved laws as well as treaties with foreign countries

In the Mamluk era (1250–1517) Sultan El-Zaher Bebars built the Court of Justice at Salah El-Deen El-Ayoubi Citadel to be the government premises. Its competence covered enforcement of laws, settling of disputes, and negotiations with nearby countries.

During the Ottoman era, (1517–1805) Islamic courts constituted the judicial system. Judges had their verdicts directly based on Islamic jurisprudence (Sharia) as far as civil and criminal disputes were concerned. This continued in effect until the end of the 18th Century. Thus, Egypt had been the scene of crucial political and social developments

In 1795, almost six years after the French revolution, a major political uprising demanding rights, freedoms and justice fueled. It brought together national forces and popular leaderships in support of national demands for justice, equality & freedom.

As a result of the mounting resistance against the Ottoman ruler, the Wali and (Mamluks), Egypt was on the verge of a massive revolt. This led to the Ulama laying their hands on a written document which outlined the individual - ruler relationship averting a tax hike without the consent of the people's representatives notably, the dignitaries (the Ulama).

The first 20th century constitution for Egypt is that of 1923.

In December 1952 there was the first constitutional declaration then in 10th of February 1953 there was a second constitutional declaration.

In 1956, a new Constitution was proclaimed stipulating the formation of the National Assembly on 22 July 1957. It was made up of 350 elected members and remained effective until 10 February 1958, when the Egyptian-Syrian merger was given force and the 1956 Constitution revoked. The Provisional Constitution of the Arab Republic of Egypt was formulated in March 1958, and a joint National Assembly was established. It first met on 21 July 1960 and lasted to 22 June 1961.

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