El Sisi says no changes planned for Egypt's constitution amid rumours of fourth term

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi stated on Wednesday that no changes to Egypt's constitution were planned, in response to calls from supporters for him to remain in office after his current term ends in 2030. However, Mr Sisi suggested that any amendments would be decided by the Egyptian people themselves. The nation has a constitution that they adopted, he emphasized during a televised address to cabinet members and army officers, cautioning against interference.

Rumors of a fourth term for Mr Sisi have gained traction due to support from loyal politicians and government-linked social media accounts, particularly as opposition figures abroad criticize his policies. As president since 2014, Mr Sisi's final term ends in 2030, marking 16 years of his rule. Egypt's current constitution, adopted in 2014 following a popular uprising that ousted autocratic leader Hosni Mubarak, prevents presidents from serving over two four-year terms.

In 2019, constitutional amendments extended his term to six years, with the first of his two terms beginning in 2018 rather than 2014, allowing for his re-election in 2023. El Sisi's administration attributes Egypt's recent stability to his leadership, despite ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and economic challenges caused by factors like the Iran war, energy imports, and infrastructure spending.

Critics, however, blame the government's policies, excessive borrowing, and infrastructure projects for economic woes, as well as unresolved issues with Ethiopia over Nile water rights.