By John Ikani
No fewer than 400 individuals have been apprehended in connection with what local media terms as “riot incidents” following President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi’s announcement of his intention to pursue a third term.
President Sisi’s announcement on Tuesday triggered an unusual outpouring of public dissent.
Viral social media footage captured protests occurring in the northwestern city of Marsa Matrouh.
In the videos, protesters can be heard chanting slogans like “Sisi out,” expressing their desire for an end to his decade-long rule.
Other video clips depicted confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officers.
The privately owned Al-Manassa news website reported comments from Saleh Abou-Attiya, the secretary-general of the Marsa Matrouh Bar Association, indicating that around 400 individuals, primarily comprised of “young men,” have been taken into custody.
The former army chief, who played a pivotal role in the removal of Mohammed Morsi, the leader of the Muslim Brotherhood, in 2013 amidst extensive protests against Morsi’s governance, has held power since then.
Activists contend that Mr. Sisi’s tenure in office has been characterized by the forceful suppression of any opposition and the deterioration of Egypt’s economy.
The forthcoming presidential elections in Egypt are slated to occur in December.
