5 questions for a parliamentary candidate: Mohamed al-Oraby

Former Foreign Minister Mohamed al-Oraby is a member of For the Love of Egypt’s coordination committee and is running in Giza. Oraby ventured into national politics following his retirement from the Foreign Ministry in 2011. He headed the Conference Party, which was founded by fellow diplomat Amr Moussa, before resigning in 2014.

Why are you interested in running in the elections?

I’m running because the current stage Egypt is going through needs different and diverse expertise in parliament. The next parliament will not be traditional, and it will need people who can deal with the challenges ahead.

What would your priorities be if you were to win a seat in parliament?

The services that every Egyptian is entitled to are my top priority, but particularly health insurance and the sewage system. And, of course, Egypt’s international relations, as I was in this field for a long time.

Who is supporting your candidacy?

Since my retirement in 2011, I have entered the field of politics and held the position of president of the Conference Party and member of the National Salvation Front, which stood up to the rule of the Muslim Brotherhood. I think my involvement in internal politics has given me valuable experience and I have a lot of supporters.

Do you feel there is the political context for your success in a free and fair election?

Our movements in the last period have proven that we have a good chance. We integrate with people from different social classes and across different cities and villages. Since 2011, I have been almost all over Egypt and have sensed acceptance and respect from people.

How competitive do you think this election will be?

There will definitely be competition, and I think this is a good thing. That’s why we’re telling Egyptians that they have to participate, and the choice is up to them. Upper Egypt is almost guaranteed for For the Love of Egypt list, but there’s some support for the Nour Party there too. In Cairo, there’s competition with the list headed by Judge Tahani al-Gebaly. Ultimately, I think that For the Love of Egypt enjoys wide acceptance from the public.