In 2012, 13 candidates competed in the first round of Egypt's presidential election. In retrospect, the race offered the most diverse political palette yet. Turnout saw a drop of over 20% from the parliamentary elections just months earlier, yet the variety of candidates offered insight into what Egyptians identify with and what they are willing to sacrifice or accept when facing tough choices. The second round was a nightmare scenario for the majority, who had to choose between the extremes of each camp: pro-state and Islamist. Two years later, the political space and appetite shrunk to only allow two candidates. The top five of the 2012 race are still involved, but their views and whereabouts sketch a different political scene for today.
Mohammed Morsi