Geopolitical Risks Research

Egypt’s new leaders face big challenges

• In looking to bring about a smooth transition from here on the military council faces a number of difficult questions, notably:
• Transition Administration: Once the dust has settled around Mr Mubarak’s ousting, will the protestors and/or opposition leaders accept a military administration led by Mr Suleiman?
• Mubarak Successor: Will a credible candidate for the presidency emerge who commands widespread popular appeal and is acceptable to the army?
• Constitutional Reform: Given its desire not to open the door to the Muslim Brotherhood, will the army allow enough reform to satisfy the opposition?
• Legislature Elections: Will the opposition, focused to date on the presidency, also demand early legislature elections, especially given widespread criticism of the 2010 ballo
• Although all these issues pose challenges, prospects for a relatively smooth transition have nevertheless improved following Mr Mubarak’s departure.
• However, it remains to be seen what wider impact these events may have.