Lawsuit to Exclude Candidates in Damietta Lawyers Syndicate Elections Set for Ruling August 9

Egypt's Administrative Court of the State Council has set August 9 as the date to rule on a lawsuit challenging the preliminary and final lists of candidates for the Damietta Lawyers Syndicate elections. The case, filed by lawyer Yasser El-Qawas, seeks to exclude several candidates from the electoral process.

El-Qawas argues that the inclusion of candidates who have served three consecutive terms violates the principles of transparency and equal opportunity within professional syndicates. He contends that this practice hinders the infusion of new talent and fresh perspectives into the syndicate's leadership. The lawsuit demands the suspension and annulment of the decision to include these candidates, thereby barring them from the upcoming elections.

Furthermore, the plaintiff has requested that a portion of the case be referred to the Supreme Constitutional Court to determine the constitutionality of repealing the second paragraph of Article 136 of the Lawyers Law. This article, amended by Law No. 147 of 2019, originally stipulated term limits for holding leadership positions within syndicates. El-Qawas asserts that limiting terms for leadership roles is a fundamental principle that promotes the rotation of responsibility and enhances transparency, citing constitutional articles related to democracy and combating corruption.

The plaintiff's legal team has submitted a new defense memorandum, emphasizing the unconstitutionality of removing the term limit provision. They argue that this move contravenes democratic principles and the state's commitment to fighting corruption. The case highlights a tension between established practices and calls for greater accountability and renewal within Egypt's professional organizations.