Egypt’s election: what’s at stake?

A breakdown of what Egypt's presidential race really means.

Q Is the election a foregone conclusion?

A By percentage of votes, it could be a landslide.

Attention will be on turnout. If it’s high, the former army chief Abdel Fattah El Sisi can claim the nation is behind him and tell the world that his ousting of the Islamist president Mohammed Morsi reflected the will of Egyptians. Low turnout would show the narrowness of his support in a country that has risen up against two presidents since 2011.

Q What is at stake?

A Egyptians are desperately looking to restore security and revive the economy. Failure to show tangible results could trigger a new wave of unrest that some fear could be even more violent. Also, an El Sisi presidency faces the question of whether Egypt can achieve the democracy sought by the 2011 “revolution”. Mr El Sisi’s supporters say he saved democray from Islamists. His secular critics fear he will enshrine autocracy once more.

Q What’s El Sisi’s platform?

A Stability, stability, stability. Mr El Sisi says all turmoil must stop so the country can tackle Egypt’s massive problems.

He promises his military-bred efficiency can bring “great leaps” in the economy. Everyone must buckle down – even businessmen should forgo some profit for the good of the nation.

Q Will the vote be rigged?

A Outright rigging is nearly impossible. But irregularities can be expected, like campaigning outside polling centres or voter intimidation.