The new Egyptian constitution was voted on, the second time in 2 years. Last time around, those opposed to an Islamic centered framework complained loudly and protested by boycotting the election. This guaranteed that the Islamist would win and put their preferred document in place. Two years and one military led coup later, we see another election and this time, the Islamist are complaining loudly and have boycotted the polls. Shockingly, they lost. And they lost by a landslide that honestly beggars the imagination. Over 20 million voted this time, as opposed to 16+ million last time, and this time there was only 1.9% voting no, as opposed to 36% last time. Last time there were far more voting "No", with roughly 4 million less votes. I would say that the claims that there was a "mandate from the people" were far less accurate last time compared to this one.
That being said, part of the right in a democracy is the right to participate by voting. I view it as a responsibility as a citizen of this country. I believe that all who live in country that has this right should view it as a responsibility. The fact that my vote in the area that I live will not generally be on the winning side due to my beliefs has nothing to do with it. If you do not participate, you have no right to complain about the outcome. I believed that two years ago those who protested by boycotting the vote were getting the government and framework that they deserved. I also believe the same now. If the Islamist's are so certain that they are right and that their view is that of the majority, they should have encouraged everyone to vote. They decided to boycott, so they lose, without even a significant minority vote to point at as proof of their claims. If you don't participate, you can't win. Personally, based on the last constitution, I'm glad they boycotted, but that's just my personal opinion.
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