Egypt's 1st Democratically-elected President In 60 Years Takes Oath

Cairo, July 1, IRNA -- Egypt's first democratically-elected President in 60 years of Egyptian history Mohamed Morsi, took oath before the constitutional court on Saturday. A night time vigil was held at Tahrir Square hours before the country’s first Islamic civilian president was officially sworn in. Many of his supporters had remained in the square following emotional scenes when the president–elect had spoken to them. He addressed the “Muslims and Christians of Egypt” reaffirming his pledge when elected to be an inclusive president. He repeated the promise he gave to the people at Tahrir Square before the constitutional court as well. “I promise you and I promise God. I swear by God that I will sincerely protect the republican system and that I respect the constitution and the rule of law. I will look after the interests of the people and protect independence of the nation and the safety of its territory.” Morsi took part in the unofficial inauguration on Friday, the eve of formal swearing-in, at the site that was the epicenter of the revolt that removed his predecessor from power. "No institution will be above the people," he said, pointing at the crowd. "You are the only source of authority." Morsi pledged to embrace all political currents in Egypt, seeking to placate critics as well as supporters wary that he might compromise with military leaders. At the same time, he reached out to a more extremist base of support by vowing to pursue the release of blind Sheik Omar Abdel-Rahman, who is in U.S. custody on charges of alledged plotting to blow up New York City landmarks. Of many challenges facing Morsi, he will first have to confront the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces. On Friday he signaled that he would struggle to regain the powers of the presidency, following a series of court rulings that paved the way for the military council to retain significant legislative and executive powers./end