Egypt's Constitutional Court declares indefinite suspension

The move is seen as an escalation of tensions in the current crisis in Egypt.

Egypt's Supreme Constitutional Court (SCC) declared an indefinite strike on December 2 in what it called a "dark day" for the judiciary after Islamist protesters blockaded its headquarters ahead of a key ruling.

Members of the Egyptian Constitutional Committee vote to approve Egypt's new Constitution on November 29. (Photo: Reuters)

The state news agency MENA quoted a statement saying the Supreme Constitutional Court announced it would "cease its activities for an indefinite period... until the pressures are gone".

The move is seen as an escalation of tensions in Egypt's current crisis as the judiciary confronts President Mohamed Mursi, who last week issued a controversial decree declaring the constitution.

According to the plan, the Supreme Constitutional Court (consisting of 19 judges) will meet on December 2 to consider the constitutionality of the law on the election of the Shura Council (Upper House) and the selection of members of the Constituent Assembly.

However, the judges were unable to enter the court as they were blocked by a crowd of protesters. The protesters, who came from various parties and Islamic movements, also demanded the dissolution of the Supreme Constitutional Court. This situation forced the Supreme Constitutional Court to announce a postponement of the session and then an indefinite suspension of its activities./.

According to VNA - DT