At a meeting with the cabinet on Thursday, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces called for the need to pay attention to attempts to drive a wedge between the people and the armed forces on the one hand, and between the country's Muslims and Christians on the other.
Information Minister Osama Heikal, in press statements, said the council has reiterated its support for the government. He also said the council and the government are earnestly working together to achieve security and stability for the country, and attain a modern civil state based on true democracy respectful of human rights and all faiths.
The minister added that a committee was formed by the justice minister to examine all sectarian incidents that have broken out during the past months over church building, such as the Two Saints Church, the Atfeeh Church, the Imbaba Church and the Marinab Church. He vowed the committee would set a date for the conclusion of the investigation as soon as possible, and bring to trial those responsible for such incidents so as to prevent their recurrence.
He also said that the military council and the government are interrogating those arrested in Sunday’s Maspero clashes in order to determine its instigators and financiers, and take legal action against them.
He added that Christian places of worship would be subject to regulations and licensing in all parts of the country, stressing the importance of maintaining societal cohesion in order to secure the country.
He also said the military council and the government urge wisdom in dealing with issues concerning the relationship between Muslims and Christians in Egypt, as well as combating all forms of extremism and violence.
They have also reiterated their support for freedom of expression, and denied any possibility of censoring the media, which requires the highest degree of accuracy and scrutiny in the broadcasting and dissemination of information, he said, adding that it also requires the avoidance of sensationalism, incitement and accusations of treason or defamation, so as not to endanger homeland security.
Translated from the Arabic Edition
