The draft of the new Criminal Procedures Law threatens Egypts criminal justice system and violates international human rights conventions

 

The draft of the new Criminal Procedures Law threatens Egypts criminal

justice system and violates international human rights conventions

 

10 critical objections to the draft law

Introduction

The relevant parliamentary committee has completed its discussions on the draft of the new Criminal Procedures Law, which is currently under review by the Legislative Committee in Parliament as this paper is being written We view this draft as lacking significant value and importance particularly in light of the ongoing expansion of the powers granted to the Public Prosecution in this domain There is a clear sidelining of the judicial authority in supervising and monitoring the actions of the Public Prosecution during the procedures it undertakes in accordance with the law This undoubtedly impacts the course of criminal trials and the fates of defendants who must be presumed innocent until the judiciary renders a final ruling

 A review of the historical legislative amendments to the Criminal Procedures Law reveals a consistent trend among lawmakers to tighten and enhance the authority of police officers and the Public Prosecution This reflects a clear and systematic philosophy that aligns the proposed amendment with a series of changes advocated by jurists  lawyers, and others

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