Cairo: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has unveiled a pioneering framework aimed at preparing future presidential candidates following the conclusion of his current term in 2030. The announcement was made during a speech delivered at the graduation ceremony of students from the Egyptian Military Academy, located east of the capital city.
A Structured Preparation Program
Sisi described the initiative as unprecedented in Egypt’s history, designed to cultivate a new generation of leaders capable of assuming state responsibilities. He specified that out of the remaining 43 months until 2030, 30 months would be dedicated exclusively to this preparation process. The Egyptian Military Academy will oversee the training program, which targets individuals aged between 40 and 50 years.
The president indicated that the selection process could involve groups comprising 200, 300, or even 500 participants. These candidates are expected to hold doctoral degrees from reputable Egyptian or international universities. The curriculum aims to educate them on the nature of the state and strategies for its preservation, thereby enabling the Egyptian public to make an informed choice among qualified contenders who meet specific legal criteria.
Sisi confirmed that the armed forces would bear the financial costs of this leadership development program. Admission would be subject to rigorous examinations. He stressed that holding office requires a deep understanding of statecraft and national security, noting that mere eloquence is insufficient without substantive preparation.
Constitutional Term Limits Remain Fixed
During the same address, Sisi reiterated his commitment to the Egyptian constitution, stating firmly that his presidential term will end in 2030. He declared this matter “settled” and emphasized that no one should tamper with the constitution. This statement serves to counter recent rumors circulating on social media platforms suggesting potential constitutional amendments in 2027 that might allow him to run for another term.
Under the current constitutional text, Sisi is ineligible to seek re-election after his third term concludes in 2030. The constitution was amended in 2019, extending the presidential term from four to six years and permitting Sisi to run for a third term. He first assumed office in 2014 following his election victory, with subsequent re-elections occurring in 2018 and 2023.
In a separate context earlier in the week, Sisi addressed a military symposium marking the 53rd anniversary of the October 1973 war against Israel. There, he urged citizens to fortify the state against what he termed conspiracies targeting national stability, rather than focusing on protecting the president personally. He reaffirmed that the constitution remains inviolable.
