We are confident that the Egypt’s military leadership is capable enough to deal with security threats. From purely a military point of view, the Egyptian army can fight unscrupulous elements in the Sinai Peninsula and outside.
However, the real challenge is the effective management of the political process as it is much difficult to deal with political opponents than chasing terrorists. It is, thus, imperative to engage capable and experienced people during the transitional phase. Undoubtedly, the Egyptian president’s announcement of holding parliamentary elections in February has come to many as a surprise who were under the impression that the military — being the sponsor of the current political process — would try to slow it down to remain in power. Although, the parliamentary elections will not silence the Muslim Brotherhood, which is raising hue and cry over the credibility of the electoral process and its results. The elections will, however, prove the seriousness of the military in helping Egypt return to the democratic path and in involving local political forces in the administration and accountability of the state.
This process may be complemented by the announcement of the presidential election date and thus become a genuine rule of legitimacy, not a temporary one. The parties currently in power must ensure active participation from all quarters.
Failing to involve the Islamists in the political process will only result in a crippled political system. The real challenge is to sift through the ranks of the Brotherhood to find moderate elements. However, this is an uphill task. Due to this reason, I think that the smooth functioning of the political process is much more difficult than fighting terrorists.
This should not be seen as reconciliation attempts or concessions but a call to build a strong political base wherein all stakeholders are given representation.
Egypt is at a crossroads. They must build the road to the future in line with their true aspirations for which they took to the streets about three years ago.
However, this time around more checks and balances need to be in place so as to ensure democratic separation of powers and respect for rights.
Then, if the Muslim Brotherhood or any another political group wins, they will be governed by constitutional controls while the differences will be controlled through the agreed upon and stipulated terms of reference. Had this been the case earlier, it would have been possible to avoid the events that led to Mursi’s toppling.
All stakeholders, including the military, can enable Egypt to form a government that could rule for the next hundred years, ensure stability and help governments work without fear of the street revolutions or coups. Only in such reassuring, safe, and clear climate, major economic and developmental challenges could be faced.
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