2018 Egyptian Presidential Election: A Turning Point for Democracy Amidst Authoritarian Trends

The 2018 Egyptian presidential election was a pivotal event that, while superficially reaffirming Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s hold on power, exposed the deep fissures within Egyptian society and underscored the challenges facing democratic aspirations in the region. Held amidst a backdrop of tight control over media, political opposition, and civil society, the election served as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle between authoritarian tendencies and the yearning for greater political participation.

To fully grasp the significance of this election, it is essential to delve into the preceding context. Following the tumultuous 2011 uprising that ousted Hosni Mubarak, Egypt embarked on a fragile transition towards democracy. However, this hopeful period was abruptly curtailed by the military intervention in 2013, which led to the removal of Mohamed Morsi, the country’s first democratically elected president. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the architect of the coup and then head of the armed forces, ascended to power promising stability and a return to order.

El-Sisi’s subsequent presidency witnessed a tightening grip on all aspects of Egyptian life. Opposition figures were silenced, independent media outlets were muzzled, and civil society organizations faced increasing restrictions. This crackdown on dissent created an environment where open political competition was effectively stifled, paving the way for a predetermined outcome in the 2018 election.

The 2018 election itself was marred by numerous irregularities. Only a handful of candidates were allowed to contest against el-Sisi, with most prominent opposition figures either imprisoned or barred from running altogether.

The lack of genuine competition, coupled with allegations of voter intimidation and manipulation, cast a shadow of doubt over the legitimacy of the entire electoral process. International observers raised concerns about the restricted political space and the absence of a level playing field.

Despite the predetermined nature of the election, its outcome had far-reaching consequences for Egyptian society:

• Solidification of Authoritarianism: El-Sisi’s overwhelming victory cemented his authoritarian rule, signaling the continuation of tight control over all aspects of public life. This eroded democratic norms and institutions, creating a climate of fear and self-censorship.
• Economic Discontent: While el-Sisi touted economic achievements, many Egyptians continued to grapple with unemployment, rising prices, and a widening gap between rich and poor. The lack of meaningful political participation exacerbated these frustrations, leading to sporadic protests and social unrest.
• Regional Impact: The outcome of the election was closely watched by neighboring countries in the Middle East and North Africa. It served as a cautionary tale about the fragility of democratic transitions and the enduring appeal of authoritarianism, particularly in contexts marked by instability and socioeconomic challenges.

The 2018 Egyptian presidential election, though ostensibly a democratic exercise, ultimately revealed the deeply entrenched nature of authoritarian rule within the country. El-Sisi’s victory, while expected, underscored the need for continued vigilance against abuses of power and the importance of fostering a genuinely inclusive political landscape where all voices can be heard and respected.

The future trajectory of Egypt remains uncertain. While el-Sisi enjoys widespread support among segments of the population who crave stability, his authoritarian tendencies have alienated many others. It remains to be seen whether he will usher in an era of economic prosperity and social progress or whether his rule will further entrench the divide between those who benefit from the current system and those who are marginalized. Only time will tell what legacy this pivotal election will leave on the Egyptian political landscape.