Slew of strange bills brings more controversy for Egypt's parliament

The article discusses the political situation in Egypt, particularly focusing on the Egyptian parliament that convened on January 10, 2016. The previous Islamist-dominated assembly was dissolved in June 2012 by the Supreme Constitutional Court due to an 'unconstitutional' election process. The new parliament, which was expected to perform better, saw the formation of the In Support of Egypt Coalition, a majority bloc supporting President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, just before its inauguration. However, there were concerns that this new parliament would act as a rubber stamp for the regime, with no real opposition present.

Rift widens between Egyptian president, Al-Azhar

The article discusses the strained relationship between Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Al-Azhar, Sunni Islam's oldest seat of learning. It highlights the initial support Al-Azhar's grand imam, Sheikh Ahmed el-Tayeb, gave to Sisi during the overthrow of President Mohammed Morsi in 2013. However, tensions have since emerged due to Al-Azhar's resistance to Sisi's calls for the renewal of Islamic discourse and modernization of the faith. A public remark by Sisi to the grand imam, although made in jest, indicated the president's frustration with the lack of progress on religious reforms.