Democracy initially prevails in Egypt: A commentary

Democracy initially prevails in Egypt: A commentary

By

Dhreff

Anchor for Allvoices

Egypt has been known to the world as one of the cradles of civilizations that its people remain proud about since pre-biblical times. For about 16 months ago, Egyptians toppled Dictator Hosni Mubarak whose regime was gradually hated and disliked after 33 years. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) took the reign of government of post Mubarak regime.

The Supreme Council labored so much for the installation of interim governmental machinery to keep Egypt going. It pledged to transfer power to a civilian government after complying and fulfilling two conditions. First, the promised parliament was elected and constituted. However, it was dissolved before the run-off election between Ahmed Shafiq and Dr. Mohammed Mursi was held on June 16 to 17. Secondly, the presidential elections were conducted and the Egyptians elected Dr. Mursi as president in the run-off round.

Egypt in a state of turmoil as shown in violent protests and demonstrations in the streets of Cairo and in entire the country that took their center stage at Tahrir Square, the democratic processes, initiatives and efforts went on undisturbed until finally the goal was achieved – Presidential Elections Commission head Farouk Sultan proclaimed on June 24, 2012 PM that President-Elect Mursi garnered 13,230,131 votes against Ahmed Shafiq, with 12,348,380 votes.

The success of Egypt in such a democratic political experiment is another feather to be added to its ancient pride and grandeur as a cradle of civilization. President-elect Mursi is a product of a political feat in the midst of uncertain and tensed situation that draws the warm welcome and congratulatory messages of certain world leaders. Heading the list is U.S President Barack Obama called on Dr. Mursi to congratulate him personally. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced out his hope that Egypt-Israeli long –standing peace treaty will remain as is.

The United Nations secretary general Ban Ki-moon was in all praise for Mursi, saying the election is just one step of the country’s move toward democracy. Through a spokesman “he urged the president-elect to spare no effort in ensuring the people of Egypt realize their aspirations for greater democracy, the promotion of human rights, and a more prosperous and stable Egypt for all of its citizens,” as quoted from Michael Vincent.

Yes, it is very interesting and noteworthy that above-mentionrd leaders came forward to welcome and congratulate president-elect Mursi. Nevertheless, everyone watching and following through the unfolding political development in the land of the pharaohs cannot ignore asking – What is the real score for President Mursi?

Mursi 60, U.S educated and engineer by training and profession was a jail buddy for some time during Mubarak regime. He promised to organize a government for Egyptians that includes Christian minority who are apprehensive over the Muslim Brotherhood rule.

There is a steaming notion that Mursi’s presidential powers would be expected
to be deconcentrated by the powerful Egyptian army which is dependent on White House’s aids and grants, according to Reuters.

Nevertheless, allowing Mursi to sit and to discharge some if not all his presidential functions will be a great leap for democracy in Egypt. Democracy to sprout, grow and thrive in Egypt will be a great human feat and achievement in a predominantly Islamic region.

Source:

1. http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2012/s3532197.htm