Nādir Fawzī, head of Middle East Christian Association [MECA] called for forming a “Coptic Parliament”
that is expected to pass a new list of regulations to choose the pope on a democratic basis. He called for this
parliament to be convened in Pope Shenouda’s lifetime in order to avoid any possible
troubles.
Kīwān believes that Fawzī’s suggestion is the result of his and the Coptic
expatriates’ skepticism concerning the news that is circulating about the pope’s potential
successor.
Fawzī explained his idea stating that every bishopric should elect five renowned people of
its members, known for their decency. All the people of the bishopric should participate in the elections under
the supervision of the bishops and priests. The elected people from all the bishoprics will form the core of the
“Coptic Parliament.” He added that bigger bishoprics like those of Cairo and Alexandria can have 25 members
instead of just five.
The expected “parliament members” in addition to the those of the Holy Synod will
represent all Copts inside Egypt and abroad, and will choose the patriarch from among six
nominees.
Fawzī also stated that the members of the Coptic parliament are to be elected every four
years and the members do not have the right nominate themselves more than twice. He stated that the parliament
should replace the present Community Council and will be the political voice of Copts and the link between the
Coptic Orthodox Church and the government.
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