Ismail's opportunity comes in April 1879. Under…

Ismail's opportunity comes in April 1879.

Under foreign pressure, Ismail orders the assembly to dissolve.

Its members refuse, saying they represent the nation and will not relinquish their mandate at the order of the khedive, influenced and pressured as he is by foreign powers.

On March 29, they present a manifesto to the khedive protesting the Council of Ministers' attempts to usurp their power and authority.

They also state their determination to reject the European ministers' demand that Egypt declare itself bankrupt.