Egyptian experts, backed by official statements, predicted the country would witness “political and partisan openness” by the end of 2020.
Their estimations were based on the renewed debate over the Senate Law. The Senate, or Shura Council, was dissolved seven years ago. Parliamentary elections are also set to be held later this year.
Head of the parliamentary legislative and constitutional affairs committee Bahaa El-Din Abu Shoka said Monday that he expects discussions over the Senate and parliamentary elections to begin in early May.
According to the constitution, the parliamentary elections should be held before November 9 and two months before the parliament’s term expires.
Egypt approved amendments to its constitution by a referendum in April. Among the amendments was the formation of a Senate, comprised of at least 180 members.
Expert and political analyst Dr. Jamal Abdul Jawad revealed in a report on 2020 expectations that confronting terrorism and the need for economic reform have imposed certain political conditions on public work.
He added that 2020 will witness several opportunities to apply and experience new policies in the public field, including parliamentary and Senate elections that are expected to be held at the same time.
He saw that one of the signs of possible political openness in the coming period is President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s frequent stressing of the importance of activating the media, parliamentary and partisan fields.
Observers have noted that internet users managed to access in January BBC Arabic, Alhurra and Mada Masr and other websites.
