Ninth: the Constitution of 1923

Conditions of its issue

• The most important change after the Declaration was the constitution and the start of the liberal era, whereas before, the ruler was the source of authorities.
• A committee was formed to draft the constitution and largely succeeded, but King Fuad intervened to seize powers for himself allowing him to control government — above all the right to dissolve parliament unconditionally and to dismiss a ministry however much it held the nation's confidence.
• The constitution was issued in April 1923 and contained contradictory texts: some making the nation the source of authorities, others suspending their effect.
• Article 23 declared that the nation is the source of authorities, yet in practice the King remained so through most of the liberal era until the revolution of 23 July 1952.

Liberal principles

• Freedom of opinion, press and belief — "Religion is for God and the homeland is for everyone".
• Freedom of assembly and of forming societies and parties, within the limits of law, morals and tradition.
• Equality among Egyptians before the law and in civil and political rights and duties.
• The sacredness of homes and of property; property is not expropriated except for public benefit and with compensation.
• Banning press censorship except to protect society from destructive ideas.

Separation of powers

• Legislative: a Parliament of elected representatives of the people.
• Executive: the King is irresponsible (not accountable), exercising it through his ministers; the ministry is accountable to Parliament, not to the King.
• Judicial: exercised by the judiciary.