be farmers or workers. Term of membership and activities The term membership of the Shura Council was six years. However, renewed election and appointment of 50% of the total number of members was required every three years, and re-election and re-appointment was possible for those members whose terms were expiring. The Constitution provided many guarantees to protect the council, including: The Council may not be dissolved except by a Presidential decree and only in case of necessity. Members of the Council have parliamentary immunity. Candidates criteria In accordance with the law, any candidate wishing to be elected to the Shura Council shall meet the following conditions: Hold the Egyptian nationality as well as being the son/daughter of an Egyptian national. Be not less than 35 years old upon election or nomination. Have completed military service or be exempted therefrom. The Shura Council member is elected by the absolute majority of valid votes cast in the elections. Powers Although the powers of the Shura Council were not as extensive or effective as the People's Assembly, its jurisdiction as provided by Articles (194) and (195) of the Constitutions of 1971 and 2012 covers the studying and proposing of what is deemed necessary to preserve the principles of the 23 July revolution and the 15 May 1971 Corrective Revolution. The Shura Council consulted on the following (Article 195): The council must ratify: Constitutional amendment bills. All treaties or agreements affecting Egypt's territorial integrity or sovereignty. In case of disagreements with the People's Assembly, a combined committee is formed composed of both chambers’ chairmen and seven members from each chamber. The proposed bill is reconsidered in both chambers. If either still disagrees, the issue is once again in a joint session of both chambers to reach a common statement. The council is considered on a consultative capacity for: Drafts, and general plans for social and economic development. Bills referred to the council by the President of the Republic. All matters relating to the state's general policy or international issues referred to the Shura Council by the President of the Republic. In this case, the council submitted its decision to the president and the People's Assembly. Parliamentary elections There are currently many recognized political parties covering a broad political spectrum. However, the formation of political parties based on religion is prohibited by the Constitution. Opposition and political pressure groups are active in Egypt and make