By: Elham Aboul Fateh
Once again, Egyptians proved that they are responsible and confident people, after they went out in a big turnout and queues in front of the election centers to cast their votes in the referendum on the constitutional amendments. They went out, whether in 124 countries abroad or inside.
Men, women and young people participated in a historical epic that reflects the courage of this people and their ability to achieve, provided that they find those to trust, only to show to the whole world how Egyptians are keen to practice political rights properly.
Four years ago, amid joy because of then new constitution, I wrote "Dare we amend this Constitution?" for it became clear to me then that the 2013 constitution included many hidden faults such as abadoning the Shoura Council (high chambre of parliament) and the absence of the Vice-President post, (one who will relieve the president of some of the tasks). It also stated a 4-year duration for the presidential term.. I wondered then if that time is enough to study the problems, especially in a country which just emerged from crisis and battles with Muslim Brothers, terrorists who were pulling Egypt backward. I questioned then if the president can, in this short time, heal our wounds as Egyptians and then starts long-term strategic planning but also implementing it.
It is true that during the past four years President El Sisi surprised us by speedy acheivments, as if he was racing time. The new Suez Canal project was completed in just one year and not four as initially planned. In one year also he managed to respond to our crisis in transportation, where a giant transportation network was established to link every corner of the country, and makes us able to invite investors to come to Egypt.
In addition, he could entirely eliminate electricity failures, but also achieve a huge surplus for export and convert Egypt from a dark country to an exporter as well as a global center for energy. He started the project of nuclear energy and inked contract for its implementation at 'Dabaa' area, following decades of hesitation. He took the courageous decision to turn this dream into real, a project which is no less important than the High Dam.
The same brave decisions and achievements took place in the field of housing in all its levels, such as a plan to eliminate slums and turn them into urban areas fitting human dignity and rights. In addition, he placed emphasis on the residents' rights to live a better life, pursue small and micro-enterprises. In the field of health and social care, there have been unprecedented acheivements.
It is true these acheivemnts needed four full years to happen, surviving challenges and locating all support from the people to their leadership.
But it is also true that this would not have been possible without the presence of this man. As much as he believed in this people and his ability to give as much as God gave him the insight and self-confidence and trigger energies and willingness among Egyptians.
Indeed there is a difference between two pictures; one of people screaming at their leaders who promised them good lives but eventually let them down, and one for the Egyptians who thought good of his leader who called upon them, since the beginning, to stand, sacrifice and be patient to build the country. The people reacted but also went out to practice the democracy at voting centers and post their says about the new constitution.
This was the historical picture that the world has conveyed about the Egyptians, while they went out in cities, villages and towns to amend the constitution to suit the requirements of the present and our need for a decent and stable life. This was the great turnout of the referendum which proves that the Egyptians are aware of their interests and what is happening in the world around them. I'm certain that they will remain supportive and confident at the hero who saved Egypt and turn our dreams of development and stability to a concrete reality, not imagination!
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