Will Egyptian President Sisi’s mandate be extended?

Millions of Egyptians are heading to polls to vote in a constitutional referendum that could keep President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi in office until 2030.

The move has received overwhelming backing from parliament. Supporters say Sisi has stabilised Egypt and needs more time to finalise economic reform.

If passed, the president would be able to appoint top judges, expand the role of the military, and create a post of vice president.

But rights groups are concerned Sisi’s consolidation of power will lead to a crackdown on dissent.

So is Egypt heading towards a complete authoritarian rule? And what are the consequences, both at home and in the region?

Presenter: Richelle Carey

Guests:

Timothy Kaldas – non-resident fellow at the Tahrir Institute for Middle East Policy

Maha Azzam – head of the Egyptian Revolutionary Council

Hussein Baoumi – Egypt researcher for Amnesty International

Source: Al Jazeera News

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