Mubarak Orders Election Amendment - ABC News

CAIRO, Egypt Feb 26, 2005 — Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak on Saturday ordered a review and amendment of the country's presidential election law, paving the way for multi-candidate polls in September.

"This morning I have asked the parliament and the Shura Council to amend Article 76 of the constitution, which deals with the election of the president to discuss it and suggest the appropriate amendment to be in line with this stage of our nation's history," Mubarak said in a speech broadcast live on Egyptian television.

He said the amendment would be put to a general public referendum before the presidential polls, scheduled for September. The surprise announcement follows increasing opposition calls for political reforms, including multi-candidate presidential elections.

A skeptic points out that such an amendment would allow Mubarak's son to run without contradicting his statement that the son would not inherit the presidency.

UPDATE: TigerHawk has a roundup on this story and suggests a cause and effect -- Rice's cancellation of a trip to Egypt, and cites human rights activist in Egypt who credit international pressure. (via Instapundit)