Calls for Sisi’s nomination a public sentiment, says military spokesperson

Military spokesperson Ahmed Mohamed Ali reiterated that the Armed Forces does not intend to field or endorse a candidate for the presidential elections, adding that collecting signatures for General Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s nomination is a “public sentiment” that cannot be prevented, Al-Ahram reported.

In an interview with Saudi satellite channel Al Arabiya, Ali said that Sisi had more than once denied any intention to run for president. He added however that Sami Enan, Armed Forces’ former chief of staff, and Ahmed Shafiq, former presidential candidate and previously senior commander in the Egyptian Air Force, have the right to run in the elections.  

Late in July, an online campaign was launched to urge Sisi to run for president. Ali said that this campaign reflects a “national sentiment,” but that Sisi himself has emphasized that “protecting the public’s will is dearer than ruling Egypt.”

Ali added that Sisi’s “utmost ambition” is leading the military.

Ali said that the Armed Forces will not interfere in political life by nominating a candidate.

On Saturday, Enan dismissed rumors that had been circulating online regarding his nomination for presidency.

“Achieving security and stability is what preoccupies us as a people looking forward to the future,” state news agency MENA quoted him as saying.  

Ali’s Al Arabiya interview is scheduled to air on Sunday at 7 pm KSA.