As the sun rose on Sunday, the heart of Cairo buzzed with anticipation as Egyptians flocked to polling stations amidst heavy security. The air was charged with the echoes of a nation grappling not only with a presidential election but also with the shadows of a war-torn Gaza Strip.
Against the backdrop of the most severe financial crisis in recent history, where inflation soared close to 40%, the concerns of Egyptians are laser-focused on the economy. The currency's sharp depreciation, leading to a surge in import costs, has left a lasting impact on a country where about two-thirds of its 106 million people were already living on or below the poverty line.
Before the polls officially opened at 9:00 am, voters had already gathered outside a central Cairo school. The significance of this election is palpable, as the incumbent, Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, seeks a third term in a climate where serious opposition has been systematically quashed through a decade-long crackdown on dissent.
While Egypt grapples with its economic woes, the political landscape remains dominated by Sisi. The crackdown on dissent has left little room for viable opposition, allowing Sisi to stand virtually unchallenged. Despite the challenging economic circumstances, the tight grip on political opposition has diminished the impact of electoral campaigns, with most Egyptians paying minimal attention to the candidates.
In a bid to connect with the public, posters outside the Cairo polling station urged citizens to "get out and participate," while a DJ played nationalist tunes. With a staggering 67 million eligible voters, all eyes are on the turnout, especially considering the historically low participation in previous elections.
The contenders, apart from Sisi, include Farid Zahran, leader of the left-leaning Egyptian Social Democratic Party; Abdel-Sanad Yamama from the century-old but relatively marginal Wafd party; and Hazem Omar from the Republican People's Party. During a televised debate where Sisi was notably absent, Omar emerged as a prominent figure.
However, the political landscape is marred by the sidelining of prominent opposition figures, with some ending up in prison or awaiting trial. Journalist and activist Khaled Dawoud, acknowledging the stifling atmosphere of suppressed liberties, remains skeptical about the credibility and fairness of the vote.
Despite this, he emphasizes casting his vote for Zahran to send a clear message to the regime about the urgent need for change.
As Egypt stands at a crucial crossroads, the outcome of this election will not only shape the nation's future but also resonate beyond its borders. The convergence of economic challenges, political dynamics, and regional conflicts adds layers of complexity to an already pivotal moment in Egypt's history.