Human rights groups slam Egypt's new law banning public protests as 'repressive'

A new law restricting public protests in Egypt has been condemned by human rights groups.

The law was signed by the interim President Adly Mansour.

Human rights groups in Egypt rejected the draft law before it was enacted by interim President Mansour.

In a statement, 19 Egyptian organisations said that the draft law seeks to criminalise all forms of peaceful assembly, including demonstrations and public meetings, and gives the state free hand to disperse peaceful gatherings by use of force.

Many believe the new legislation is aimed mainly at supporters of banned Muslim Brotherhood and the ousted president, Mohammed Morsi.

Prime Minister Hazem Beblawi, however, said the new law meant to protect "the right of protesters" and required them to give "notice" rather than seek permission.

According to the BBC, the new law requires protest organisers to notify police at least three working days before a demonstration.

The protestors are even required to provide their names, addresses and demands under the new law.

The security forces can ban or postpone demonstrations if they believe they will threaten public order.

Those who break the law can face up to seven years in jail. The law was signed as more protests took place in several cities on Sunday, the report added.