The Egyptian government on Wednesday defended the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, which faces sharp criticism for mismanaging the transitional period and making unilateral decisions.
The armed forces are trying to transfer power to an elected civilian administration, said Egyptian Prime Minister Essam Sharaf, in an opening speech in the Dii's 2nd Desert Energy Conference, delivered on his behalf by Minister of Industry and Foreign Trade Mahmoud Issa.
The armed forces are protecting the current transition period, Sharaf added.
“Egypt is undergoing political developments that aim to achieve more democracy, transparency and an improved standard of living.”
The government is working to make structural reforms to provide more work opportunities, particularly for low-income people.
Rights groups and activists have accused the SCAF of mismanaging the transition period and making unilateral decisions without consulting political forces.
The government angered the opposition when Deputy Prime Minister for Political Affairs Ali al-Selmy issued a draft document giving the army special status in the country’s new constitution.
The transition government under Essam Sharaf has no power, and the SCAF rules from behind it, analysts say.
The government may not issue laws without approval of the SCAF, which is often accused of continuing the same policies as former President Hosni Mubarak.
