Shura Council - Powers

Powers

Although the powers of the Shura Council are not as extensive or effective as the People’s Assembly, its jurisdiction as provided by Articles (194) and (195) of the Constitution covers the studying and proposing of what is deemed necessary to preserve the principles of the July 23rd revolution and the May 15th, 1971 Corrective Revolution. The Shura Council is to be consulted on the following (Article 195):

The council must ratify:

• Constitutional amendment bills.
• All treaties or agreements affecting Egypt’s territorial integrity or sovereignty.

In case of disagreements with the People’s Assembly, a combined committee is formed composed of both chambers’ chairmen and seven members from each chamber. The proposed bill is reconsidered in both chambers. If either still disagrees, the issue is once again in a joint session of both chambers to reach a common statement.

The council is considered on a consultative capacity for:

• Drafts, and general plans for social and economic development.
• Bills referred to the Council by the President of the Republic.
• All matters relating to the state’s general policy or international issues referred to the Shura Council by the President of the Republic.

In this case, the council submits its decision to the president and the People’s Assembly.

The constituent assembly has given the Shura Council the power to issue legislation until a new lower house of parliament is elected.