CAIRO – ALTHOUGH the countdown to the parliamentary elections later this year has started, political parties, activists and democratic movements appear to be busy with other things. Abandoning their main task, these political groups are engaging in bickering, which distracts everybody's attention from their expected role after the success of the revolution. Leaders, spokesmen and representatives of these political groups and activists are also taking part in extraordinary competitions in the press or on television. They act as if the longer and louder a person speaks, the more influence they would have. Likewise, revolution spin-off alliances are engaging in what could be marginalised battles in press and television. Dozens of young people belonging to these alliances and the mainstream April 6 Movement seem to be satisfied with camera-produced publicity. However, these victims of camera mania should remember that a big task is waiting for them in October and November. Unless they groom themselves and prepare for the election battle, they will be given a drubbing. Political activists and parties should appreciate the fact that the forthcoming parliamentary elections are the first to take place after a revolution that laid the foundation for freedom, social justice and democracy. Accordingly, political groups, activists and movements should promptly assess their situation, forget their differences, stop bickering and devote themselves to their main task. Otherwise, they will find it too difficult to convince voters of their potential to play a pioneering role in Egypt's future. [email protected]