Egypt’s Sisi says he will step down in 2030 and constitution will not be changed

CAIRO, Oct 17 — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced today that he will step down from office in 2030, when his current term ends, confirming that the constitution will not be altered. The 71-year-old former army general, who assumed leadership in 2014, made the announcement during a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy in New Administrative Capital, an initiative he championed.

Speaking to graduates and state officials at the sprawling new city east of Cairo, Sisi stated that his presidency will conclude in the period leading up to 2030, provided he remains alive. This decision is deemed "completely settled" and will not be subject to discussion, he emphasized. The Egyptian constitution, ratified in 2014 after the 2013 military removal of former Islamist president Mohamed Morsi, initially restricted presidents to two four-year terms.

However, constitutional amendments approved in a 2019 referendum extended presidential terms to six years, including transitional provisions that enabled Sisi to seek an additional term. Consequently, he was re-elected in 2023 to serve a six-year term, which concludes in 2030. Critics and opposition figures have speculated about potential further constitutional changes that might permit him to stay in power beyond 2030.

Prior to his presidential bid, Sisi had denied any political ambitions; however, he resigned from his defense minister role in 2014 and entered the race, ultimately winning. He indicated that the lead-up to 2030 would be dedicated to grooming a new generation of leaders, with the Military Academy training hundreds of prospective officials, ministers, and presidential candidates in statecraft and leadership.

Over his 12 years in power, Sisi has implemented an ambitious state-led development program centered around megaprojects, which critics argue heavily rely on borrowing and contribute to Egypt's growing debt burden and economic challenges. Throughout his presidency, Sisi's tenure has been met with consistent criticism from international human rights organizations over restrictions on political opposition, civil society, and freedom of expression.

The government rejects these allegations, asserting that its policies are essential to maintain stability and security.