Morsi: No Institution Above the People

Photo Credit: EPA

Mohamed Morsi took a symbolic oath of office and gave a stirring speech to thousands gathered in Cairo’s Tahrir Square today. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces shifted the venue for the formal swearing-in from the dissolved parliament to the high court, but Morsi’s speech today in Tahrir emphasized his loyalty to the Egyptian people alone, striking a populist note. “No institution will be above the people,” Morsi insisted.

The president-elect promised to end torture and discrimination, and said he will work for the release of civilians arrested since the beginning of the revolution. Morsi promised to construct a “constitutional state” that will deliver social justice for Egyptians, and frequently challenged military rule. After speaking from a lectern for some time, Morsi stepped aside and directly addressed the crowd, lifting up his suit jacket to reveal that he wore no body armor. “I don’t fear my people,” he exclaimed, “I don’t fear anyone but God.”

The speech also touched on foreign relations issues; Morsi promised to improve relations with neighbors while respecting the will of the Egyptian people.