CAIRO: Yesterday, the Egyptian media reported that the liberal al-Wafd Party and the powerful Freedom and Justice Party were set to abandon their Democratic Alliance (DA) party coalition. Officials from both parties deny that the alliance was called off, and have declared continued cooperation. Essam Shiha, an executive member of the al-Wafd Party reportedly told media that his party was backing out of its alliance with the Muslim Brotherhood affiliated Freedom and Justice Party. The DA includes over 40 prominent political groups, of which the al-Wafd and the Freedom and Justice Party are the most powerful. Yesterday they published a joint statement to confirm their continued partnership. “The Alliances's parties and political movements have not only met to coordinate for the parliamentary elections, but have also agreed on a document of principles to serve the country,” read the statement. “The alliance is still on, with an aim to contribute to the rise of a modern democratic Egypt.” The Democratic Alliance met with Egypt's interim government, the Supreme Council of Armed Forces, last Sunday to discuss several political demands. In the meeting, authorities agreed to change controversial parliamentary election laws. Under the new system, the parliamentary vote will be based on proportional party lists. Activists believe that this is the most transparent and fair way to conduct elections. Authorities also decided upon a clear timeline for elections and the shift to civilian rule. The SCAF and the DA are meeting again on Tuesday afternoon to finalize their discussions, and address remaining demands. BM
