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Unity, Leadership and the Political Process
Different countries have different approaches to democracy, but at heart it’s a simple idea with universal appeal. Namely, that all members of society should enjoy basic freedoms with appropriate safeguards and equal protection under the law. Freedom of expression, religion and assembly are all characteristics of a democratic society, as is the right to due process and to vote. The governmental, judicial and legislative structures that support and protect these freedoms also provide checks and balances to prevent abuses, whether by citizens or those elected to power. Democracy is not a free-for-all, but the basis for a society where people agree upon and respect each others’ rights.
In Egypt we’ve begun to explore democracy’s possibilities in earnest and to build the institutional framework that supports them. But becoming a democratic society means acting democratically, contributing whatever we can to the process. Right now, Egypt needs unity, a concerted effort to forge ahead on both the economic and political fronts. If we don’t work together, the economy will suffer, as it did following recent incidents of clashes between demonstrators and the police. Egypt’s image does not benefit from such displays. The economy is damaged and the poor pay the heaviest price.
It’s fine to disagree, but not in a disorderly fashion. In the next few years, Egypt’s political vacuum must be filled with viable leadership. But enabling a party system – itself a major and urgent constitutional task – is not enough. Those who would represent the people have to formulate visions, outline their programs and acquaint people with the alternatives they propose. The people, in turn, have to familiarize themselves with their options and prepare to make a choice. Awareness-raising regarding the voting process itself, starting with voter registration, is still in a nascent stage. Civil society has an important role to play in alerting people to their rights and responsibilities. But average citizens will only engage in a process they feel is transparent and legitimate.
Egyptians are demanding improvements in their quality of life, but also in the quality of government. Accountability is a feature of democracy, enforced by the rule of law. But as we recreate our governmental institutions through decentralization, the separation of powers and other constitutional reforms, people still need jobs and the means to help themselves out of poverty. The only way political reform can work is if economic reform stays on track. It’s a balancing act that requires concentration and wise leadership. Egypt has never been confronted with a greater challenge.
Creating a culture of democracy is not solely up to government, though it should create an ambience that encourages it. The right to assemble and express dissent, for example, is perfectly legitimate, but it can be done in an organized fashion, as in other parts of the world. Demonstrations are licensed, locations determined and the public informed in advance. An exaggerated security presence and the resulting grid-lock traffic serves no one’s interests. Nor does an irresponsible tabloid press serve the people’s need for information, so much as the agenda of those willing to abuse press freedoms.
In the last half century alone, Egypt has experienced a series of drastic transitions. I believe we’ve suffered enough and the current transition can be accomplished without adding to our burden. For two decades we’ve fought for economic reform and are beginning to see the results. Likewise, political reform is undeniably under way. We should be feeling optimistic, the mood of the nation should be positive, based on a governmental effort to engage the public and the fact that our potential is great.
Egypt’s young people, above all, need choices and the possibility to participate openly in Egypt’s political life. Empowering civil society and political parties will create options for youth to use their talents and determine their future. This country has long relied on a strong central government to deliver basic needs. We are therefore unschooled in the notion of serving society and each other by responsible engagement in our communities and by employing the decision-making power that the ballot box provides. We have a long way to go.
National unity and a balanced path of economic and political reform will get us there. But while we’re building a functional political apparatus, we can cultivate mutual respect, enforce the rule of law and uphold individual freedoms. This will shorten the path to democracy, and transform a divisive, uncertain moment into an inspiring and constructive rite of passage.
TAHER HELMY
President, AmCham Egypt
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