Morsy Appoints Minority Advisers

By Micah Halpern

I've Been Thinking:

President Morsy of Egypt just appointed both a Coptic Christian and a woman to be assistants to the president. The appointments have been anticipated for weeks.

Having a woman and a Christian in his circle of advisers is thought to be an important gesture that will serve to mollify tensions and deflect accusations that the Islamic Brotherhood is taking over the presidency.

The Coptic Christian is Samir Morcos, a man who has dedicated his life to Christian/Muslim dialogue. His official position will be Assistant to the President for Democratic Transition.

The woman is Panikam Sharkawi, a professor of political science at Cairo University. She will serve as Assistant to the President for Political Affairs.

There is no doubt that this is an important step in the new Egypt. Opening up the inner circle to people who are not part mainstream is a significant and crucial political move - especially for Egyptians who are skeptical of the Brotherhood.

It is also a huge and important move announced times for the eve of
Morsy's first official trip to the United States.

 Micah@MicahHalpern.com

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