Democracy News

ElBaradei May Challenge Mubarak in Egyptian Election
March 11, 2010
By: Paul Larson | Printer Friendly

Former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Dr. Mohamed ElBaradei, has hinted that he will run for the Egyptian presidency in 2011.  According to Time, ElBaradei’s candidacy would mark the first time current President Hosni Mubarak faced viable opposition.  President Mubarak has been in power for 29 years and has reportedly been grooming his son, Gamal, to replace him.

Many reforms would be required before ElBaradei is eligible to run for office.  Egyptian law requires a candidate to lead a political party represented in parliament for at least a year before they can run for president, according to the Guardian.  There have been reports in Egyptian media that opposition parties are maneuvering for ElBaradei to join their party at least a year before the election. 

ElBaradei could theoretically bypass the political party requirement if 250 current government officials signed a petition.  However, most government officials are allied with President Mubarak and would not support such an initiative.
In addition to legal requirements, ElBaradei has set his own requirements to ensure a fair election.  These standards include improved human rights standards, checks on government powers, equal media coverage between the candidates, judicial and international supervision of the vote.  Some observers believe such requirements are unattainable

According to Newsweek, “If he really makes a run, not only will he lose, but he would fracture the fragile coalition of Mubarak's opponents, leaving them weaker and more demoralized than ever.”  Opposition groups already feel “apathetic about participating in elections because they don't believe they can effect change in a corrupt system,” according to Time. 

Many observers doubt ElBaradei’s desire to be president.  According to the Christian Science Monitor, “His goal does not seem to be to become Egypt’s president, but rather to bring democratic reform to the Egyptian political system.”  Even if ElBaradei does not run, he may force the regime into fair elections for future candidates.  However, the Guardian reports that democratic reforms will only be possible if ElBaradei develops a much larger base of supporters. 

Sources:

Christian Science Monitor - Could former UN nuclear boss ElBaradei bring democracy to Egypt?

Guardian - Mohamed ElBaradei lists tough terms for run at presidency

New York Times - Using Diplomatic Touch, an Outsider Challenges the Grip of Egypt’s Ruling Party