Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi s speech after winning victory at the elections on 18 December, 2023. Photo courtesy of Egyptian presidential spokesman.
There has been some speculation that the president-elect would take the oath of office immediately after the election results were announced.
However, legal expert Bahaa Abu Shaqa said that such a scenario could only happen in the case of early elections.
Instead, he pointed out, El-Sisi will be sworn in after the conclusion of his current term on 2 April, beginning his third term on 3 April.
Abu Shaqa clarified that taking the constitutional oath is a prerequisite for the new president to commence their duties.
Constitutional procedures
The Egyptian constitution, established in 2014 with amendments in 2019, meticulously delineates procedures concerning the presidency in articles 139-162.
Article 140 stipulates a six-year presidential term, commencing the day after the predecessor's term concludes, with a prohibition on re-election for more than two consecutive terms (the 2019 amendments carved out an exception for El-Sisi).
The election process must begin at least 120 days before the current president's term ends, and results must be announced at least 30 days before that deadline.
Regarding the oath, Article 144 mandates the president-elect to pledge allegiance to the republic, uphold the constitution and laws, and safeguard the people's interests, independence, and national unity. This oath is taken before the General Assembly of the Supreme Constitutional Court in the absence of parliament.
Article 146 addresses the appointment of the prime minister by the newly elected president. If the proposed government fails to garner parliamentary confidence within 30 days, the president nominates a candidate from the majority party or coalition in parliament.
In the broader context, Article 150 emphasizes the president's role in formulating the state's general policy, overseeing its execution, and presenting this policy to the parliament annually.
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