Al-Sisi became President of Egypt for the third time
Abdel Fattah al-Sisi secured a third term as Egypt’s president in an uncontested election, announced by election authorities. He emphasized the vote as a rejection of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, securing 89.6% of the ballots according to the National Election Authority. The election occurred amid Egypt’s economic struggles and concerns about the war near the Sinai Peninsula.
The eruption of conflict in Gaza influenced some voters to support Sisi, known for presenting himself as a stabilizing force in a turbulent region. This narrative has garnered support from Gulf and Western allies who have financially backed his administration.
Sisi highlighted the necessity for Egypt to intervene and cease the war between Israel and Hamas, considering it the country’s primary challenge. Egypt has also warned against a potential exodus of Gazans into its borders due to the devastating impact of the conflict.
The voting took place from Dec. 10-12, with efforts from the state and tightly controlled domestic media to increase turnout, reaching 66.8%, notably higher than the 41% in the last presidential election in 2018.
The election, featuring three other candidates, lacked significant opposition. Criticism arose, stating that serious contenders were prevented from running, alleging the misuse of state resources to ensure Sisi’s victory, a claim dismissed by the election authority.
For the third time in the office
Despite claims of promoting political pluralism, many Egyptians expressed apathy, viewing the result as predetermined. Reports of voters being transported to polling stations and alleged distribution of goods or financial incentives emerged, with authorities addressing these actions as criminal offenses.
Sisi initially came to power following the overthrow of Mohamed Morsi in 2013 and secured re-election in 2018, both times with overwhelming support. During his tenure, there has been a crackdown on political dissidents, with thousands detained, despite a limited number being released via presidential pardons. Rights groups contest these actions, highlighting a much larger number of arrests during the same period.
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His supporters credit Sisi with restoring stability after the turmoil following the 2011 uprising that ousted President Hosni Mubarak.