Morsy cancels decree that gave him sweeping powers

Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy has canceled his decree giving him sweeping powers but plans to push forward with a planned referendum Dec. 15 on a draft constitution, presidential adviser Mohamed Selim el-Awwa said.

The announcement came after Morsy pushed forward with talks Saturday in an attempt to end a political crisis that threatens Egypt's stability, despite calls by the opposition to boycott the meeting.

Morsy's meeting was an attempt to end a political divide that has spilled into the streets, pitting the president's supporters and opponents against one another and raising questions about his ability to lead the fragile democracy.