A number of Egyptian media outlets claimed on Sunday that a cabinet reshuffle is on the cards in Egypt.

Some outlets claimed that as many as 11 cabinet ministers will be replaced.

The 24 Cairo news outlet also asserted that young new faces will be appointed assistant ministers as well as deputy governors.

Speculation was also fueled, in part, by a tweet on Saturday by MP Mostafa Bakri who said a cabinet reshuffle is expected and that he received information that many cabinet ministers and provincial governors could soon be on their way out. "Semi-official information show that a major cabinet reshuffle is expected soon, and that it could herald several surprises," said Bakri, indicating that "if true and correct, the cabinet reshuffle could be endorsed by parliament on Monday or Tuesday."

Bakri also said he is not sure whether Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukri will retain his post or depart for health reasons. "We are also unsure whether Minister of Electricity Mohamed Shaker will stay or leave," said Bakri.

It also claimed that a new information minister is expected to be named to replace Osamal Heikal, who resigned from office last April.

Bakri said he received news that Minister of Telecommunication Amr Talaat might leave post for health reasons.

All sources, however, agree that Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli will retain post.

The rumours of a major cabinet reshuffle are believed to be linked to developments regarding the GERD (Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam), whose second filling was recently completed by Ethiopia in the absence of a legally binding agreement with Egypt and Sudan.

Bakri said parliament is expected to adjourn its session this week for summer recess, and if a cabinet reshuffle is possible it should be endorsed by parliament this week before MPs take the summer holiday.

The Senate – Egypt's consultative upper house parliament – adjourned its session on 6 of July.