Egypt's Coptic Pope Shenouda III (Photo: Reuters)
The Right to Live Movement (El-Hak Fe El-Hayah) launched a Facebook page calling for a second peaceful vigil in front of the Ministry of Justice on 15 September to demand the right to divorce and remarry for Egyptian orthodox Christians.
The first vigil, which was also organised by the Right to Live Movement, took place on 7 July at the same location.
Three demands were named on the Facebook page:
Those who are already divorced to be entitled to remarry through a notary in the registry office without acquiring a permit from the Church. This, in effect, would mean that Copts would no longer be governed by a different marital law than Muslims, except when it comes to polygamy.
The right of a couple to divorce through a notary if both parties agree.
The consistent application of the 1938 regulations by courts without having to present a certificate from the Church.
“The movement would like to bring to attention the fact that these demands do not by any means cause pressure against the Church or Christian dogma. These demands are simply a legal way out for those whose lives experience irreconcilable differences,” the statement reads.
“After the 7 July protest, another group who have suffered under the restrictions governing the Copts’ personal status appealed to the Church to be given the right to a normal life and the ability to have a family after the failure they faced in their first marriages. They demonstrated in front of the Cathedral in order to be heard. The result was that they were beaten and subjected to what became known as the Battle of the Dog.”
“Until the publishing of this statement our demands are being ignored by the bodies concerned and we are being viewed as sinners to be punished by deprivation from the basic human right of having a normal life and family, which is enshrined in Egypt’s constitution.”
“Pope Shenouda had repeatedly said in his sermons that whoever wanted to divorce and remarry outside the Church was free to do so. Accordingly, we refuse to burden the Church with our demands. But, so far, the state hasn’t provided a civil, legal way out for those who want to divorce and remarry.”
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