Many people seem to doubt that the ruling National Democratic Party (NDP) includes any true reformists among its ranks. I, however, believe it does, and that this group could help change the current political situation. The NDP is a diverse party that includes members from across the political spectrum, as well as members who want to use the party's influence to serve their constituents. Many members increasingly feel their party acts more like a private business than a bona fide political party. Meanwhile, the NDP has failed to take any positive steps towards building a liberal democratic order. The manner in which the new leaders of the NDP conducted Egypt's recent parliamentary poll has served to alienate many party members and create unprecedented rifts within the party. Disillusioned members are becoming increasingly unwilling to bow to the wishes of the party's organizational secretary, Ahmed Ezz. Indeed, many have taken part in protests in hopes of changing the country's--and their own--conditions. The reactions of several NDP candidates who lost the election to fellow party members were even harsher in tone than those of the opposition. Following the NDP's annual conference in 2002, I came to the conclusion that reform in Egypt must begin with the NDP splitting into two parties--one to rule and one to oppose. Last month's parliamentary poll has created new challenges for the NDP from within its own ranks. It's likely the party may not be able to stifle the voices of its disgruntled members who will publicly challenge their party's decisions. It's true that NDP leaders will not admit there's a crisis within the party. But reform will require that both those who support presidential inheritance and those who do not have legitimate channels to express their views. The break-up of the NDP could represent a kind of revival for the ruling party. Members who join either of the two new parties would be poised to abide by their political convictions rather than their personal interests. This would undoubtedly represent an important step on the road to reform. Translated from the Arabic Edition.
