Egypt’s parliament has approved a draft law submitted by the government to impose tough acts on agricultural encroachments.
The new amendments to the provisions of the Agriculture Law promulgated by Law No. 53 of 1966 was approved by the House of Representatives. It is set to shield agricultural land,national food security, and preserve its fertility thus result in boost in production.
Imposed law
The law is set to toughen penalty on erosion, robbing or building on agricultural acres. The penalties include; maximum jail term of five years and a fine of 500,000- 10million pounds. The penalty shall be multiplied by the number of violations, for anyone who violates the provisions of Article 152 of the law.
Engineer or contractor supervising the implementation of the violation also risk a maximum five year jail term and a 100,000- 3million fine. Their membership at the official Engineers Association or the Contractors Union will also be ceased for a period not exceeding one year, and in the case of recurrence, the halting will be for the same period of his imprisonment.
The judgment includes confiscating the machines, tools and supplies used in committing the violation. The violations stipulated in this article are considered crimes against honor and honesty. The Minister of Agriculture or whomever he delegates from among the governors may order stopping the causes of the violation.
