President Mohamed Morsi signed Egypt's Controversial Constitution

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi on 25 December 2012 signed into law a new Islamist-drafted constitution which will help end political disorder and allow him to focus on fixing the weak economy.

Mohamed Morsi signed a declaration enforcing the charter late after the official announcement of the result of a referendum approving the basic law, Egypt's first constitution since Hosni Mubarak's overthrow.

The passing of the constitution meant Egypt could now move to a new stage that should bring security and stability for the people.

 The body, known as the Shura council, will temporarily be able to pass laws until a new parliament has been elected within the next few months, after the adoption of an election law.

Two-thirds of the members of the 270-seat council were elected earlier this year in a vote in which only 12 per cent of registered voters participated. The remaining 90 were appointed by Mohamed Morsi, the Islamist president.

It was expected to draft a law for legislative elections for the dissolved lower house that have to be held by the end of February 2013.

The National Salvation Front opposition coalition said it would vie for seats in the parliament, which has powers under the new charter that could hamper Morsi’s ability to govern.