Electoral events closed this Tuesday after a three‑day voting period for the presidential election. Early results showed turnout hovering around the mid‑40s during the first two days, according to the National Electoral Authority (ANE). If the final figure lands near the current estimates, participation would be roughly four percentage points higher than in the 2018 elections. With the vote concentrated on the presidency, turnout quickly emerged as a central topic of discussion. The incumbent, Abdel Fattah al‑Sisi, who has led the country for a decade, is broadly expected to win and extend his rule through 2030. Official results were anticipated the following Monday.
In contrast to the previous elections, which featured only two candidates, this year Egyptians faced a broader slate, with four options on the ballot. Yet al‑Sisi’s rivals remain largely unfamiliar to many voters. One voter explained, “I voted for al‑Sisi because I don’t know the others. We don’t know them, and we should choose someone we know.” In Cairo, many people shared similar uncertainty about the other candidates. The campaign period was marked by prominent imagery of al‑Sisi, a visibility not matched by the contenders, drawing comment from observers about the unequal level of public exposure.
The authorities described the process as a strong and unprecedented turnout effort, fretting over the possibility of low participation. Historically, mobilization has struggled: in 2014 and 2019, al‑Sisi secured about 93 percent of votes, while turnout did not exceed 46 percent in the past decade. A voter identified as Hossam, 27, who did not vote, told Reuters, “I won’t vote because I’m fed up with this country. When there is a real election, I will go out and vote.” His remarks underscored a perceived decline in living conditions over the years under al‑Sisi’s governance.
war in Gaza
The economic crisis is a key factor shaping such elections. Inflation has surged toward the high end of the spectrum, with the local currency losing value. Human rights organizations have long warned about politically motivated arrests and the suppression of opposition voices since the 2013 coup. These dynamics continue to influence the political climate and public discourse ahead of elections, as citizens weigh economic strain against questions of political accountability.
On the regional front, Egypt remains closely monitoring the conflict between Hamas and Israel. The fighting near the Gaza border and the Rafah crossing — the main corridor for aid and evacuations — has become a critical humanitarian channel. Cairo has stated it will not participate in any plan that would escalate violence. The potential mass movement of Gazans into neighboring areas remains a concern, particularly as regional strategies unfold and civilians seek safety. The broader conversation in streets and public forums reflects a mix of solidarity for Palestinians and concern for the region’s stability, punctuated by periodic demonstrations in support of different avenues of relief and political resolution.