Egypt Purges its Army of Corruption
(July 23, 1952)
Proclamation issued by the Egyptian Free Officers
in the name of General Muhammad Naguib:
Egypt has
undergone a critical time in its recent history. It has been a period
of graft, corruption and government instability. All these factors had
a great influence on the Army. Biased persons and those who received
bribes contributed to our defeat in the Palestine
war. But the post-war period was controlled by elements of corruption,
and traitors plotted against the Army which was ruled either by an ignorant
traitor or by an intriguer so that Egypt might become a country without
a defending army. Consequently, we have purged ourselves. Our affairs
inside the Army have been placed in the hands of men in whose ability,
character and patriotism we have faith. No doubt the whole of Egypt
will welcome this news.
As regards those we have arrested, namely, former military personnel,
no harm shall be done to them. They will be released at the appropriate
time. I assure the Egyptian people that the entire Army is now working
in the interests of the country, within the Constitution and without
any designs. I take this opportunity to ask the people not to permit
any traitor to resort to acts of sabotage or violence, as these are
not in the interests of Egypt. Any such action will be met with unparalleled
firmness and the offender will immediately be punished for treason.
The Army will undertake this responsibility in cooperation with the
police. I want to assure our brother foreigners of the safety of their
business, lives and properties. The Army considers itself completely
responsible for them. God is the giver of success.
SWB, Part IV, no. 280, 29 July 1952.
Sources: Chaim
Herzog Center - Fraser, T. G. (ed), 1980. The Middle East,
1914-1979, Edward Arnold, London. |