Following the unexpected cabinet shuffle on Thursday, various political parties weighed in with their reactions and concerns to the move.
Safwat Al-Nahas, Vice President of the Egyptian National Movement, said the cabinet reshuffle came “on time”, and is considered a good step. He added in a statement that the decision was a part of the country’s polices to develop and prosper, and that the decision “has nothing [to do] with the postponement of the elections or the upcoming Economic Summit”.
Al-Nahas added that, although the new ministers are experienced, the ousted ministers were qualified and achieved the objectives demanded from them. “Having new ministries, such as the Technical Education and Housing [ministries] is crucial in the upcoming period.”
Yahia Qadry, a prominent leader in the party, similarly welcomed the decision to remove former Minister of Interior Mohamed Ibrahim, adding that some ministers in Prime Minister Ibrahim Mehleb’s cabinet were unsuccessful in fighting terrorism.
The Salafi Nour Party announced they are hoping the reshuffle will raise the qualifications of the cabinet, which would positively affect the Egyptian people.
Party head Younis Makhoun said they had previously stated the sacrifices which the Ministry of Interior is undertaking to achieve security. He demanded that the new minister consider human rights in dealing with civilians, to limit tensions between the police and the population.
He added that he appreciates the creation of the Ministry of Technical Education, saying it will further push the state’s agenda to “enhance education, investment, and industry”.
Muslim Brotherhood spokesman Mohamed Montaser said that the ministerial changeover is “nothing more than a placebo”.
He added: “These changes are nothing but a declaration of failure and they assert that Al-Sisi fears increasing popular fury, so he tries to beautify his ugly face by changing a killer who failed in securing Egypt.”
