Muslim Bros. warn of political backslide

National interests should trump individual or party agendas in the post-revolution political climate in Egypt, a Muslim Brotherhood official said. Essam al-Erian, deputy chairman of the Muslim Brotherhood, stressed that grassroots activity and the work of motivated organizations were essential in the new political climate in Egypt. This, he said, was necessary to ensure that none of the elements of the former regime would resurface. The Muslim Brotherhood was banned under the regime of Hosni Mubarak, which was brought to an end during the revolution early this year. Its political activity has been sanctioned by the transitional government under the Freedom and Justice Party, however. The ruling military council in Egypt called for parliamentary elections in September. Work would then begin on drafting a new constitution. Critics complain drafting the constitution after the elections would give established Islamist parties like the Muslim Brotherhood the upper hand in formulating new laws. The group said it wouldn't field a candidate for president in elections later this year but members have broke off from the group to launch their campaigns.