Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has commenced his third term, taking the oath of office in the country’s new capital. His leadership is marked by ambitious mega-projects that have strained Egypt’s finances.
Addressing lawmakers, religious figures, and military and government officials at the newly constructed parliament building, Sisi reflected on Egypt’s resilience in the face of challenges while vowing to persist in the trajectory of development, a promise that many Egyptians feel has left them marginalized.
“The past few years have revealed that nation-building is a challenging journey, fraught with obstacles… from domestic terrorist threats to sudden global crises and conflicts in our vicinity,” remarked Sisi during his speech.
Last December, Sisi won his third term in office by winning 89.6% of the votes in an election that lacked significant contenders. Some people were attracted to his message of stability, especially given the turmoil in neighboring Gaza. However, others who were struggling during economic hardships, felt that the election had already been predetermined.
During the inauguration ceremony, attendees expressed both support and apprehension for Sisi, recognizing the weight of his responsibilities and seeking divine guidance.
In his address, Sisi pledged increased investment in programs targeting poverty alleviation and committed to engaging the private sector, echoing promises that facilitated Egypt’s recent $8 billion deal expansion with the International Monetary Fund.
Since assuming the presidency in 2014, Sisi has spearheaded an infrastructure boom, led by the military, aimed at accommodating Egypt’s burgeoning population and fostering economic growth.
Critics, however, argue that such mega-projects exacerbate Egypt’s economic challenges, diverting resources from pressing needs and exacerbating the nation’s debt burden.
Despite economic strains, Egypt’s global standing has been bolstered by its role in mediating the Gaza crisis, positioning it as a pivotal actor in ceasefire negotiations and aid distribution.
Sisi’s ascent to power, a decade ago following the ousting of Mohamed Mursi, the Muslim Brotherhood’s democratically elected leader, has been marked by a crackdown on dissent, with tens of thousands imprisoned, according to rights groups.
Yet, Sisi and his supporters maintain that stability and security remain paramount, alongside efforts to safeguard social welfare, including housing and employment rights.
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