In a significant political development, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi has been re-elected with a commanding 89.6% of the vote, as announced by the National Elections Authority. This victory marks the beginning of his third term, extending his decade-long leadership of the nation.
High Voter Turnout
The National Elections Authority, led by Hazem Badawy, highlighted the remarkable voter turnout, which reached 66.8% among Egypt’s eligible 67 million voters. This level of participation is described as “unprecedented” in the country’s recent history. The substantial turnout resulted in over 39 million votes cast in favor of President Sissi.
The Electoral Landscape
President Sissi faced competition from three candidates. Hazem Omar, the leader of the Republican People’s Party, secured second place with 4.5% of the vote. The other contenders included Farid Zahran, representing a smaller left-wing faction, and Abdel-Sanad Yamama from the Wafd Party, a historic but currently less influential political group.
Context of Sissi’s Victory
This election victory ensures President Sissi’s continued leadership, with his new term set to commence in April. According to the Egyptian Constitution, this term is expected to be his last. Sissi’s win was largely anticipated in a country grappling with various challenges, including economic strains and regional conflicts, notably the ongoing war in neighboring Gaza.
The Egyptian economy is currently facing a crisis, with inflation at a staggering 36.4%. The national currency has depreciated significantly, losing half of its value, and the cost of basic necessities is rising weekly. These economic conditions have left approximately two-thirds of Egypt’s 106 million population living at or just above the poverty line.
Historical Perspective
President Sissi’s electoral success is consistent with his previous victories. In the 2014 and 2018 presidential elections, he won with over 96% of the vote. His continued dominance in Egyptian politics reflects a complex interplay of political stability, economic challenges, and the aspirations of a populous nation.
