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Liberal Egyptians Wary of Muslim Brotherhood's "Supreme Guide"

(Washington Post) Stephanie McCrummen - During recent opposition protests over the draft constitution, the angriest and most fervent chants were aimed at Mohammed Badie, 69, the "Supreme Guide" of the Muslim Brotherhood who, many are convinced, is secretly ruling Egypt. "Down with the Guide!" they yelled. To many seculars, Christians and moderate Muslims, Badie is the dark prince of a coming Islamist tyranny. During street protests, it is common to see images of Badie depicted as an Iranian ayatollah or as Satan. A popular YouTube video casts him as Marlon Brando's don in "The Godfather." The reality of Badie's influence is more complicated and difficult to know. According to analysts, he is a relatively uncharismatic figure who was chosen for the top position in 2010 partly for that reason. As the Brotherhood has turned toward politics, Badie has been overshadowed by more powerful figures in the Brotherhood's Guidance Bureau, experts say, including Khairat el-Shater and Mahmoud Ezzat. In his role as Supreme Guide, Badie delivers sermons and speeches that reflect a consensus within the Brotherhood rather than his independent thoughts or directives.
2013-01-01 00:00:00
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