FORMER chief of the international nuclear watchdog Mohamed ElBaradei stirred stagnant waters a few months ago when he criticised certain articles of the Egyptian Constitution in remarks over the likelihood of his candidature for next year's presidential elections. His statements have continued to earn him more popularity and backing. His homecoming following the end of his term at the UN agency has thus had different implications compared to previous stays in his home country. ElBaradei, whose diplomatic and professional competence have been a source of pride for his fellow citizens, rises up as a national icon signifying a yearning for “change”. Within this he has called for democracy and fair elections as a prerequisite for joining the race for the presidency. He has been supported by a wide circle of the intelligentsia and political activists, and regardless of whether ElBaradei will vie for presidency or not, he has certainly hit the nail on the head with his demands. However, this needs to be put into perspective. He should not be considered a superman or a saviour that has come for the people's redemption. ElBaradei might be acquainted with national issues but as an expatriate who has spent years abroad experiencing a true democratic atmosphere, he has to be at his particular moment more of a guide. He would do well to promote a general awareness of democracy as practised by subjects and rulers throughout Egypt, and through keeping the population abreast of their democratic responsibilities and rights. Supporters of ElBaradei's emergence on the political scene should not get carried away by their own fantasies, pinning their high hopes solely on him. Change is a process that does not rely on one man but rather on an enlightened collective will.
