Mursi on defense

As anger erupts across Egypt as President Mohamed Mursi defends his decision to assume sweeping powers. Opponents accuse Mursi of being the new Mubarak and hijacking the revolution.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) EGYPTIAN PRESIDENT MOHAMED MURSI SAYING:

"I did not take the decision to use it against anyone, or to go against anyone -- that is something that I could never be associated with; or announcing that I am biased towards anyone. However, I must put myself on a clear path that will lead to the achievement of a clear goal."

Mursi's aides say the decree was intended to speed up a protracted transition hindered by legal obstacles.

His rivals call Mursi an autocratic pharaoh who wants to impose his Islamist vision on Egypt.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) EGYPTIAN PRESIDENT MOHAMED MURSI SAYING:

"I would like to say to you all here and everywhere else, supporters and opponents; it does not worry me that I have opponents, on the contrary. I hope there is a real and strong opposition. I have reserved all rights for my brothers in the opposition so they can even hold a revolution if they must."

The president's ruling says any decree he issues before a parliament is in place cannot be challenged. It's a move that may consolidate his power but threatens to ignite more turbulence in a nation at the heart of the Arab Spring.