President Mohamed Morsi announces that the date for the parliamentary elections will be changed to work around Coptic holidays.

Morsi made the statement Saturday during the first Egyptian Forum for Foreign Affairs.

The presidency initially announced on Thursday night that the post-constitution elections for the House of Representatives will commence 27-28 April, which coincides with Lazarus Saturday and Palm Sunday.

The runoffs were also scheduled during Holy Week and Easter, 4-5 May.

The choice of dates was criticised by many Copts, who perceived it as negligent and an attempt to marginalise the Christian community.