All Egyptians

By Fathya el-Dakhakhni, *Brotherhood leader urges Islamic political unity, denounces extremism* - Al-Masry Al-Youm - Cairo, Egypt; Thursday, March 10, 2011

At a symposium held on Wednesday concerning the future of Egyptian political parties after the revolution, Muslim Brotherhood leader Abul Fottouh said extremism has tarnished Islam.

“Iran forced the veil by law and France prohibited it by law,” he said. “Both countries have thereby committed a crime.”

Fottouh also said Muslims should maintain political unity while dismissing the concept of Islamic participation in Sufi political parties.

“Islamic groups should not form political parties that compete for power,” said Muslim Brotherhood leader Abdel Moneim Abul Fottouh.

He also denounced Muslims inviting Copts to join their political parties strictly to prove moderation.

“They should invite all Egyptians, irrespective of their religions,” he said.

Participants in the symposium urged Muslim Brotherhood leaders to clarify their political aspirations.

Translated from the Arabic Edition.