Egypt's Morsi says new powers temporary, urges dialogue

CAIRO (AFP) - Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi said on Sunday the sweeping new powers he has assumed are only temporary and called for dialogue to find common political ground, as he faces a showdown with judges over the path to a new constitution.

"The presidency reiterates the temporary nature of the said measures, which are not meant to concentrate power, but... to devolve it to a democratically elected parliament... as well as as preserving the impartiality of the judiciary and to avoid politicising it," a statement from Dr Morsi's office said.

Under a constitutional declaration on Thursday, Morsi can issue "any decision or measure to protect the revolution," which are final and not subject to appeal.

That touched off a showdown with the judges and sparked charges by the opposition that Dr Morsi was taking on dictatorial powers.