Calls for Egypt to embrace Shariah law

Egypt’s powerful Muslim Brotherhood wants Islamic Shariah law to be the basis of the country’s new constitution, and laws to be based on Islamic penal code.

The Brotherhood said that a country ruled by Shariah would not become a theocracy. President Mohammed Morsi comes from the Brotherhood.

The statement appeared to be an attempt to clarify the group’s position toward the country’s most contentious issue – the extent of Islamic influence in governance and legislation.

The 100-member Islamist-led panel tasked with drafting the new document has been facing heavy criticism, mostly from liberals who fear Islamization of Egypt through its work.

The constitution would be a key definer of Egypt’s government and society after last year’s overthrow of president Hosni Mubarak.