Egypt’s vote is another Arab Spring shockwave
The consequences of the 2011 Arab uprisings are still being felt. Some countries, like Egypt, appear to be moving towards a democratic settlement, while others, like Syria, are mired in civil war.
The elections in Egypt this month saw the nation’s first democratically elected president, Mohammad Mursi, voted into power.
It is a significant moment for a country which had spent nearly 30 years under the rule of Hosni Mubarak.
Questions are being raised, however, as to how much power President Mursi will actually have.
Critics argue that the decision of Egypt’s ruling military council to dissolve parliament means they will hold ultimate control over the country.
Uprisings throughout the Arab world have seen similar changes in leadership, as citizens voiced their discontent through anti-government protests.
Some of these countries have followed similar paths to Egypt, while others have continued to stem any dissent through force.