Egypt’s New President Must Re-Unite People

Today, every Egyptian – man and woman, young and old – is certainly concerned about the coming days, which will witness the first post-revolutionary presidential elections, as well as the next year of transition. I cannot say that I am an exception.

Although sceptics promote fear of chaos, unrest and instability, I feel that the Egyptian people, who maintained their security by forming local popular committees when the police disappeared from the streets in January 2011, are capable of facing down such threats. They have now sacrificed so much that I do not believe they will be intimidated.

Recently I have voiced my concern about the escalating antagonism in Egypt. I really do miss the harmonious atmosphere and homogeneity that we experienced during the 18 days of the revolution.

A year ago, I participated in drafting a document, The Spirit of Tahrir, along with other revolutionaries concerned about the future of the country. We came from across the political, social and intellectual spectrum. Coptic Christian activists came together with Muslims.

This was our vision for the future progress and development of Egypt. It placed a strong emphasis on the creativity, proactivity and pure, spontaneity that motivated people to take to Tahrir Square and squares all over the country to demand their dignity and rights.

I believe that the president to be elected this week, whoever he is, should understand that his main and most important task is to unite Egyptians once more. Egyptians expect to have a president who represents them, not the former regime.

Among the revolution’s greatest achievements so far has been the parliamentary elections held late last year. We witnessed voters turning out in unprecedented numbers to choose their representatives freely.

The Muslim Brotherhood and its political wing, the Freedom and Justice Party (FJP), won the majority of votes in these elections. It is now determined to continue Egypt’s democratic path to a free society based on the rule of law and peaceful rotation of power.

Through national consensus, the new parliament led by the FJP is tasked with electing the Constituent Assembly to draft Egypt’s new constitution, in which all segments of society will be fairly represented.

A series of laws has been passed that will ensure the transparency of the voting process, and that every vote counts, when Egyptians go to the ballot boxes to choose their new president.

As Egypt again becomes the focus of global media attention, it remains the centre of my world.

I am still active on the front line of the revolution, supporting local social activism to encourage people to connect and engage in dialogue, to learn more about each other and articulate their commonalities. This promotes tolerance and sharing and will lead to the greater good for all.

Now in my late 40s, I learnt from the revolution to look forward, to be optimistic, patient and always ready to give.

When I wonder about the future of Egypt, I can go wild with my dreams and foresee the goals of the revolution regarding freedom, dignity and social justice becoming a reality on the ground.

Then I quickly head to my office and return to work, deeply believing that this is the way to get the spirit of Tahrir to last among us forever.

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