Egypt votes for Constitution

Today, Egyptians voted in favor of a new constitution put forward by their military backed interim government.  Initial statements by officials claim over 55 percent of eligible voters turned out with 95 percent of those individuals voting in favor of the new constitution.  Although 55 percent would be a powerful turnout for most elections, it is not so great considering they were voting for their country’s basic structure of governance.  Unfortunately, these numbers and massive boycotts by Muslim Brotherhood sympathizers, among others, demonstrate a huge segment is not being adequately represented by this initial step toward a new government.  It is also important to recognize the military sponsored constitution is largely seen as inadequate when it comes to respecting civil liberties while it is rather self-serving.  In comparison to the Islamist constitution of the Morsi government, which was far more oppressive and exclusive, it looks better, even if it will ultimately fail the People of Egypt.  Consequently, Egypt’s future and it’s Peoples’ freedom is in doubt.  Until these events play out, the International Community will have to watch as the key Middle Eastern nation struggles to reestablish its governance.