Egyptian municipal elections, 2008

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The 2008 Egyptian municipal elections were local elections held across Egypt on 8 April 2008.

Run up to elections

In the run up to the elections, Human Rights Watch alleged mass round-ups of 800 opposition Muslim Brotherhood candidates and would-be electoral candidates.[1] HRW also cited the delaying of a military court announcement for 40 Muslim Brotherhood leaders accused of belonging to an illegal organization until April 15, a week after the elections.[1] A general strike was called for 6 April to protest low wages and rising food costs, with the Muslim Brotherhood giving support to the strike.[2]

Boycott

On 7 April, the day before the election, the Muslim Brotherhood announced it would boycott the election, after being allowed to compete for 20 seats amongst the 52,000 total seat available nationally.[3] The ruling National Democratic Party, led by President Hosni Mubarak will be unopposed for election in 70% of the seats.[4]

References

  1. ^ a b Egypt: Jailing 800 Activists Casts Doubt on Elections Human Rights Watch, 30 March 2008
  2. ^ Egypt issues strike warning Al Jazeera English, 5 April 2008
  3. ^ Egypt opposition boycotts polls BBC News, 7 April 2008
  4. ^ Al Jazeera English - News - Egyptians Vote Amid Poll Boycott