Egypt's President Loses Popularity Amid Economic Crisis, Gains Global Role In Gaza Conflict
Explore how Egypt's president loses popularity amid economic crisis and the impact of the Gaza conflict on his political standing. Delve into the complexities of Egypt's current situation.
Author:Suleman ShahReviewer:Han JuDec 11, 20234.2K Shares158.7K Views
Egypt's president loses popularity amid economic crisis. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has found himself in an unexpected and crucial role on the international stage as a result of the ongoing conflict in neighboring Gaza. Despite the economic challenges that had eroded his popularity, the war in Gaza has shifted the focus for many Egyptians and the international community.
In recent weeks, the war has become the central concern for Egyptians, overshadowing their economic woes. President el-Sisi, known for his authoritarian rule, has seized this opportunity to position himself as a champion of the Palestinian cause at home and a vital regional leader abroad.
A Changed Landscape
In Cairo, a widespread boycott of Western companies associated with support for Israel has led to a significant shift in public sentiment. Egyptians, grappling with the impact of record-setting inflation over nearly two years, have now opened their wallets to aid victims of the Gaza conflict. Even in a country where protests have long been banned, hundreds of people have risked arrest to march in solidarity with the Palestinians.
The three-day presidential vote, which began on Sunday, is expected to solidify Mr. el-Sisi's hold on power for another six years, as none of his challengers are seen as credible threats. Billboards, banners, and posters featuring Mr. el-Sisi dominate the streets of Cairo, and many voters are not even familiar with the other candidates.
Economic Challenges Persist
However, President el-Sisi faces a delicate balancing act. The economic crisis that had previously punctured his aura of invulnerability continues to burden households, companies, and the nation's finances. It is anticipated that Egypt will devalue its currency, the pound, after the election, further straining the already burdened population.
Despite the high level of support for the Palestinian cause among Egyptians, there is growing concern about whether the government is doing enough to support Gaza. While Egypt blames Israel for limiting aid, calls to end the joint Israeli-Egyptian blockade of Gaza and for Egypt to have greater control over its border crossing with Gaza have gained momentum across the Arab world.
Diplomatic Challenges
Balancing the delicate relationship with Israel is a priority for Egypt, as the two countries share a strong security partnership in the Sinai Peninsula. Egypt is also cautious about upsetting its Western backers, especially at a time when it desperately needs financial support.
The dire economic situation has left many Egyptians struggling to make ends meet. Prices of essential goods have skyrocketed, and inflation, already over 35 percent annually, is expected to worsen if the government proceeds with the currency devaluation.
Political Landscape
Before the conflict in Gaza, signs of President el-Sisi's dwindling popularity were evident. Challengers had emerged, criticizing his leadership and drawing support from various corners of Egypt. Activists and liberals had started to express hope for change, sensing an opportunity.
However, the war in Gaza shifted the narrative. President el-Sisi has strategically used the crisis to his advantage, presenting it as an excuse for the economic crisis. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations organized by groups close to the government drew significant crowds, with banners featuring Mr. el-Sisi alongside images of Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque.
Election Outcomes
The presidential election is expected to conclude with President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi securing a third term. The other candidates are relatively unknown to the public, and any serious opposition has been effectively eliminated due to a decade-long crackdown on dissent.
President el-Sisi, who came to power in 2013 after leading the overthrow of the country's first democratically elected president, Mohamed Morsi, has faced international criticism for his government's handling of dissent and political prisoners.
While the economy remains a top concern for voters, the ongoing conflict in Gaza and President el-Sisi's response to it have become central issues in the election campaign. Egyptians are closely watching the outcome, as the president navigates the complex challenges both at home and in the international arena.
Suleman Shah
Author
Suleman Shah is a researcher and freelance writer. As a researcher, he has worked with MNS University of Agriculture, Multan (Pakistan) and Texas A & M University (USA). He regularly writes science articles and blogs for science news website immersse.com and open access publishers OA Publishing London and Scientific Times. He loves to keep himself updated on scientific developments and convert these developments into everyday language to update the readers about the developments in the scientific era. His primary research focus is Plant sciences, and he contributed to this field by publishing his research in scientific journals and presenting his work at many Conferences.
Shah graduated from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (Pakistan) and started his professional carrier with Jaffer Agro Services and later with the Agriculture Department of the Government of Pakistan. His research interest compelled and attracted him to proceed with his carrier in Plant sciences research. So, he started his Ph.D. in Soil Science at MNS University of Agriculture Multan (Pakistan). Later, he started working as a visiting scholar with Texas A&M University (USA).
Shah’s experience with big Open Excess publishers like Springers, Frontiers, MDPI, etc., testified to his belief in Open Access as a barrier-removing mechanism between researchers and the readers of their research. Shah believes that Open Access is revolutionizing the publication process and benefitting research in all fields.
Han Ju
Reviewer
Hello! I'm Han Ju, the heart behind World Wide Journals. My life is a unique tapestry woven from the threads of news, spirituality, and science, enriched by melodies from my guitar. Raised amidst tales of the ancient and the arcane, I developed a keen eye for the stories that truly matter. Through my work, I seek to bridge the seen with the unseen, marrying the rigor of science with the depth of spirituality.
Each article at World Wide Journals is a piece of this ongoing quest, blending analysis with personal reflection. Whether exploring quantum frontiers or strumming chords under the stars, my aim is to inspire and provoke thought, inviting you into a world where every discovery is a note in the grand symphony of existence.
Welcome aboard this journey of insight and exploration, where curiosity leads and music guides.
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