Landslide Victory for Egypt's President Despite Mounting Crises

Tuesday 19 December 2023 - 14:05

CAIRO - Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi has secured a commanding win in the recent election, clinching an impressive 89.6% of votes amidst severe economic challenges and regional turbulence affecting the Arab world's most populous nation.

The electoral commission officially declared the overwhelming victory on Tuesday following a three-day election process that concluded last week. Al-Sissi is set to embark on a third term, the final one permitted by Egypt's constitution.

Observers are astounded by the president's resounding win, especially as Egypt contends with a faltering economy, historic inflation, and conflicts in nearby Gaza. With over two-thirds of Egypt's 106 million citizens living in poverty or just above the poverty line, the outcome of the election is striking.

"Egyptians have unequivocally favored stability and security, overlooking the economic crisis and regional tensions," remarked political analyst Amr Adly.

Officials proudly announced a record-breaking 66.8% voter turnout, translating to over 39 million votes for al-Sissi. The president has maintained an unwavering hold on power since toppling Egypt's first democratically elected president, Mohamed Morsi, in a 2013 military coup.

Al-Sissi had previously swept presidential elections in 2018 and 2014, securing 97% of the votes, underscoring his substantial influence across the deeply divided nation.

"While President al-Sissi faces crises on multiple fronts, his base believes he is Egypt's best hope for restoring stability and countering political Islamists," explained Hudson Institute scholar Samuel Tadros.

Egypt's currency has recently plummeted by 50%, essential food costs are escalating weekly, and government debt levels have ballooned, posing a significant threat to macroeconomic stability in the upcoming fiscal year, according to the World Bank.

Simultaneously, the Gaza Strip has been engulfed in violence as Israeli forces target Palestinian militant groups, placing Egypt in a delicate position as a mediator.

Human rights groups have heightened criticism of Egypt's human rights record under al-Sissi, accusing authorities of severely suppressing opposition voices and imprisoning tens of thousands. The government has consistently denied allegations of mass repression.

As al-Sissi embarks on a fourth term, experts emphasize the need for adept navigation to steer Egypt away from economic challenges and regional tensions or risk potential destabilization in the future.