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Egyptians begin voting as opposition complain of repression

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Egyptians have begun voting in an election set to deliver an easy win for incumbent Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Citing repression, all credible opposition pulled out, clearing the way for the former military commander.

It is being called a ‘sham election’ by a group of U.S. foreign policy specialists who say it’s taking place against a backdrop of massive human rights abuses. Critics say Sisi’s popularity has been hurt by austerity reforms and a muzzling of opponents, activists and independent media.

After a string of candidates pulled out Moussa Mostafa Moussa stepped forward. A longtime Sisi supporter he’s widely dismissed as a government stooge. Polls are open for three days and the big concern for Sisi will be turnout.

After leading the military’s overthrow of Egypt’s first democratically elected President Mohamed Mursi in 20-13, he’s cast his bid for a second term as a vote for stability and security. Lower turnout could suggest he lacks a mandate to take the tough steps needed to revive the country’s struggling economy.

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