Understanding dynamics of Egyptian politics

Jack Desmond (Irish Examiner, Aug 26) berates Michael Moriarty for his contribution and suggests the students from Dublin are in Egypt supporting the struggle for democracy, which begs the question: Does Mr Desmond understand the dynamic of Egyptian politics and the religious fundamentalism associated with the Muslim Brotherhood and its pursuit of Sharia Law?

It was the usurpation of that democratic mandate by Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood which triggered those protests. Seemingly the students concerned are presenting themselves to the Irish public as innocent bystanders who just happened to be on holiday in Egypt at the time of mass civil unrest. Indeed Mr Moriarty raised the same question in his previous contribution which Mr Desmond has failed to address. The promulgation by Islamic fundamentalists linked to the Muslim Brotherhood of a jihad which includes anti-semitism, treating women and other religions as inferior, is a violation of democracy and if facilitated would be incompatible with the Irish constitution.

Mr Desmond also suggests that as observers we should remain rational and impartial. As Mr Moriarty is a former colonel in the Irish Defence Forces who has many years exemplary service with the UN in Egypt and elsewhere, I would have thought his previous contribution was more rational, impartial and worthy of consideration.

Peter Mulvany

Clontarf

Dublin 3