“There is room for negotiations with the military council,” said Bishr, a member of the Brotherhood’s guidance council, the group’s governing body. “We are open minded and speak to all. They contacted us and we met but they want to continue on the path of the coup but we reject this. Negotiations must start off on the path of democracy and the constitution.”

Bishr’s statement contradicts that of fellow guidance councillor Mohamed Beltagy, who had previously denied negotiations were taking place. His admission also came as prosecutors announced investigations against Morsi on charges of spying, inciting violence, and damaging the economy. It also follows claims by Brotherhood spokesman Gehad el-Haddad that 200 Muslim Brotherhood members were scouting Tahrir Square, in preparation for Brotherhood protests in the area.

Bishr admitted that the Brotherhood might agree to Morsi’s departure, but only if he was reinstated first, and given the opportunity to leave in a manner of his choosing. He also said that the reinstatement of Egypt’s constitution – suspended by army chief general Abdel Fattah el-Sisi – was essential for negotiations. “All legal solutions are available,” said Bishr. “For example, we demand that the constitution is reinstated, instead of being suspended – even if Morsi leaves office. But he as president must call for new presidential elections – or a referendum on whether he stays in office or not.