Egypt's recent ban on strikes and protesting

No to strike ban in Egypt.

In a serious and worrying development the Egyptian cabinet of ministers approved today 23/3/2011 a draft law which, according to newspapers and media, criminalizes some cases of sit-ins, protests and gatherings which hamper work in public or private paces. The draft law penalizes those who incite ins, protests and gatherings with imprisonment and heavy penalties which reach EGP 500 000. It is decided to submit the draft law to the Supreme Military Council for final consideration and adoption.

Although the complete suggested draft law which the Cabinet approved is not made available, it is understood from the news from the Cabinet and statements of the Deputy Prime Minister that it is a draft law amending the Egyptian Penal Law to criminalize the aforementioned acts or to make penalties heavier. Whatever the provisions may be, it is a legal disaster by all means. It is a return to penalize the right to go in strike.

To read the full story, click here:
http://www.ctuws.com/Default.aspx?item=867

To get involved in solidarity for the Egyptian movement, contact Egypt Workers Solidarity organisation at;
http://www.egyptworkersolidarity.org/