Formation of Islamist Political Party Blocked

A legislative body blocked the establishment of Egypt's first Islamic-oriented political party, the third time lawmakers refused to recognize the group.

The panel in charge of legalizing new political parties rejected the establishment of Hizb al-Wasat al-Gedid, the New Centrist Party, a government official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

The Political Parties Affairs Committee gave no reason for its decision, but during previous applications the government has said the party was a front for the banned Muslim Brotherhood. The committee also refused to recognize the pan-Arabist Hizb al-Karama, or Dignity Party.