Introduction
Khedive Ismail established the Egyptian Parliament in 1866, the first parliament in the Arab world. It has lived through critical moments in Egyptian political life: the end of the Mohammed Ali Dynasty in 1952, the declaration of the republic in 1953, and more recently the revolutions of 25 January 2011 and 30 June 2013.
The House of Representatives holds legislative power. It approves the general policy of the state, the general plan for economic and social development and the state budget, and it oversees the work of the executive, as the Constitution prescribes.
Membership
Parliament has 596 seats: 448 elected as individual candidates, 120 elected through winner-take-all party lists (with quotas for young people, women, Christians and workers), and 28 chosen by the President.
Parliament building
A parliament building was constructed in 1923 to house the House of Representatives, with two balconies overlooking the debating chamber. A Pharaonic Lobby was added, its roof supported by 24 papyrus columns.
Frequently asked questions
When was the Egyptian Parliament founded?
Khedive Ismail established it in 1866, making it the first parliament in the Arab world.
What does the House of Representatives do?
It holds legislative power, approves the general policy of the state, the economic and social development plan and the state budget, and oversees the executive.
How many members does the House of Representatives have?
The page lists 596 seats, most of them elected, with up to 28 members appointed by the President.
Is the Parliament building historic?
Yes. The building dates from 1923 and includes a Pharaonic Lobby whose roof rests on 24 papyrus columns.
