Egyptian Military Council reshuffled
(VOVworld)- Egypt's interim president Adly Mansour on Thursday reformed the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), giving more power to the military forces which are independent of the civilian government.
In this Thursday, July 4, 2013 file photo, Egypt's chief justice Adly Mansour prepares to be sworn in as the nation's interim president. Photo: AP
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A decree issued on February 27 declared that the Defense Minister will take over the SCAF’s chairmanship from the President. This is the first time in Egypt’s history that the President, who is also Commander in Chief of the armed forces according to the constitution, will not lead the SCAF. According to the decree, the number of SCAF members will be raised to 23 and chosen by the Defense Minister. They are the top officials of the service branches and military surveillance offices. The same day, Mansour also issued a decree to establish the Central Egyptian Defense council which will be responsible for related issues such as defense policy and security agreements.