(Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs) Zvi Mazel - During the 1920s, '30s and '40s, Egypt experienced a similar period when, under the leadership of the Wafd Party, liberal democracy was introduced. However, the democracy was fragile and was accompanied by violence from the Muslim Brotherhood and fascist groups. The current revolution has released radical forces as well, who found it difficult to operate under Mubarak's regime, like the Muslim Brotherhood, Nasserists, and leftists. One can expect that under the guise of the victory of the revolution and the beginning of the democratization process, these groups will do everything to strengthen themselves and become part of the ruling powers. The Brotherhood is acting cautiously and will wait patiently for the right moment. The writer is a former Israeli ambassador to Egypt.
2011-02-14 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive