CAIRO: The second round of Egypt's first post-revolution presidential elections began on Saturday amidst political turmoil after the Egyptian parliament is expected to be dissolved and the rejection of the political isolation law that would have reshaped the race was part of the rulings issued by the Supreme Constitutional Court on Thursday. The constitutional court's decision directly effected the election, as it kept old regime loyalist Ahmed Shafiq in the race. Shafiq was ousted and jailed President Hosni Mubarak's last prime minister during the 18 days that preceded the removal of his 30-year iron fist rule, and if the law had been implemented, Shafiq would have been removed from the race. Shafiq, a military man, is supported by old regime affiliates and businessmen, who he has promised to keep their interests untouched. The Muslim Brotherhood's candidate Mohamed Morsi is facing Shafiq with the full support of Islamic groups inside the country. The Brotherhood, who appear to be losing their majority in the parliament, pushed their candidate as the only option against the “death of the revolution.” They attempted to win votes by presenting themselves as the revolutionary powers' last hopes, but have been faced with calls of boycott. A percentage of Egyptians, many from revolutionary groups and coalitions are expected to boycott or void their votes to show their refusal of both candidates. The military ruling council has deployed over 400,000 soldiers around the voting polls to prevent any clashes between the two sides. Around 30 judges apologized for not supervising the elections, according to the election committee, citing health reasons, while observers say the current situation has angered many. The ministry of interior said joint forces from the army and the police will be securing the streets to stop any last minute campaigning by both candidates. A fine of 100 Egyptian pounds was announced if a voter fails to show up and cast their ballot. The government announced Saturday and Sunday as the two days off to allow voters the time to participate in the run-off. The ministry of interior also announced that special forces would be securing and observing the judges as they tally the votes for their protection. Early morning queues in Cairo, Suez and Tanta were growing as voters try to beat the heat by voting early. Women voting polls have seen a large turnout especially in the Nile Delta region, north of Cairo and Egypt's largest two cities, Cairo and Alexandria. Several organizations are monitoring the election, including local NGOs and international bodies, hoping to catch and report any violations.
