After three years of vacuum in the legislative branch, Egypt’s House of Representatives made a comeback in January 2016 following a rather low turnout in the parliamentary elections. The elected parliamentarians successfully drew the public’s attention through their uncanny sessions. Controversy erupted after several bills and drafts had been suggested and filed for discussions, also after the public feuds between the members were aired. Footage of random voting on bills surfaced, showing thorough “randomness” under the Egyptian parliament’s dome. Other footage suggested that some MPs are not allowed to discuss draft laws. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kHfRNT-aNxk Apart from the clashes and quarrels inside the parliament that are common in several countries, Egypt’s parliamentarians have repeatedly proved that they don’t have much to bring to the table. Every now and then, a member decides to come up with a new controversial draft law that makes people question whether these MPs are actually familiar with people’s needs and demands or not. Ban on Western Names MP Bedir Abdul-Aziz, the representative of Kafr Al-Sheikh governorate suggested a jail term and a fine that ranges between EGP 1,000 to 5,000 to be imposed on parents who give…
From Ripped Jeans Ban to Virginity Tests: Egypt’s Parliament Most Bizarre Bills
May 26, 2017
