The win of Islamists in Egypt’s parliamentary elections will certainly give sleepless nights to the US and friends of Israel. The way things have turned out in the first phase of the most-talked about Egypt parliamentary elections the signs are that Islamists, including Muslim Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party, have gained a foothold in the country that still continues to be ruled by a secular army.
After the ouster of tyrant Hosni Mubarak it was expected that the military will handover the power to an elected government. But nothing like this has happened despite many protests. However, the silver lining in the dark cloud is holding of the elections.
Analysts had predicted that secularists would put up a tough fight against Islamists. But the opposite has happened. Gauging public’s mood is extremely difficult.
Unfortunately, for the West and others in the region secular liberal parties have failed to grab voters’ attention on a large scale. Of all the Islamist parties, Brotherhood has been the most successful one by grabbing 36.6 per cent of the vote. The biggest upset has been the increased performance of Nour party that by many in Egypt is being termed as the ultraconservative.
The results are certainly going to have an impact on the region. The win of two Islamic parties may put in question Egypt’s longtime relation with Israel.
Now, when things have gone out of hand, it would be interesting to see how the West and the US reacts to the development. Will election be cancelled and army ruled imposed? As things stand right now anything can happen. Other than this the big question is will the West engage with Islamists or boycott them as they did to Hamas?
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