Parallel parliament

Among the factors that preserve Egypt's stability one can count on the responsible attitude of opposition leaders towards the well being of the country

Though exceptions may arise now and again, the prevailing political reality in Egypt is one of marked responsibility towards the nation that embodies Egyptian politics on the whole. This was especially apparent during the recent parliamentary elections. Despite scorn and accusations leveled by some, the overwhelming sense throughout was of a high level of obligation to the state which historically typifies Egyptian politics and is where its strength rests.
Some rushed to form a parallel parliament, the common name for a political entity yet unestablished and for whom its members have yet to designate a proper title. The concept is a dangerous one; names carry weight that should never be underestimated. Unlike a parliament, there are certain things that one must have a variety of: political parties, unions and media outlets, to name but a few. And while countless political and social institutions exist, there remains a need for more. Nevertheless, there are instances where multiplicity can be undesirable — a nation's army, its president, its judicial mechanism, and naturally, a parliament. Without one of each, a state will fall into disarray, its stability disrupted.
It is therefore natural that leading political forces in Egypt have expressed reservations over the call to form a parallel parliament. Doing so reflects the deep responsibility that characterises the positions of such forces. The Wafd Party is no exception as far as its ultimate intentions indicate, despite internal strife. Even the banned Muslim Brotherhood has echoed this stand. Despite a policy of belligerence faced from the government and National Democratic Party, the Brotherhood has distanced itself from smug attitudes within the group on the issue of a parallel parliament.
The Brotherhood, despite being banned from political activity, is a formidable, longstanding movement that has amassed ample political experience over the years. It makes little sense, therefore, to deny its significance. The Brotherhood and the Wafd, along with the leftist Tagammu Party, are undeniably preeminent political forces in Egypt, operating in the backdrop of amateur independents working to take their place but that lack the experience necessary to make critical decisions.
The key political forces in our country bear a deep sense of responsibility that justifies the call to provide them a platform to participate in the political arena. Doing so will perhaps will be part of future waves of reform.