Al-Majlis al-Milli

This chapter discusses Marcus Simaika's role as a member of Al-Majlis al-Milli. At Cyril V's return from exile, the majlis was dissolved and a committee was appointed to carry out the work of the Coptic patriarchate. Due to accusations of bribery and corruption, the committee was dissolved and a new majlis was elected in 1905, of which Simaika was again a member. Three years later, Simaika was elected vice president of the Majlis al-Milli under the ex-officio presidency of the patriarch. Four committees were formed: the first to look after Coptic schools; a second in charge of Coptic churches, monasteries, and the clerical college; a third to administer waqfs; and a fourth to supervise the administrative work of the patriarchate. Simaika resigned in 1928 in protest at the financial policy followed by the majlis.