Egypt releases first draft of new constitution

CAIRO (AP) - The panel writing Egypt's new constitution has released an unfinished draft of the document, calling for a public debate on the charter in the face of mounting criticism.

The parliament-selected panel is dominated by Islamists. It has come under criticism from liberals and secularists who accuse the panel of seeking to place limits in the new constitution on religious freedoms and women's rights.

They have challenged the 100-member panel in courts, calling for its disbandment.

Leading Islamist panel member Mohammed el-Beltagi told reporters the assembly has not voted on the draft it released on Wednesday. He appealed for public feedback on the incomplete document. A final version will eventually be put to a referendum.