Scheduled televised debate between presidential finalists Mohamed Morsi and Ahmed Shafiq is called off at last minute after both candidates bow out without giving reasons
A televised debate between presidential finalistsAhmed ShafiqandMohamed Morsi, which had been scheduled for Tuesday, has been cancelled, according to Egyptian Broadcast and Television Services (EBTS).
According to EBTS officials, the debate was cancelled after both candidates abruptly bowed out of the event without providing reasons for doing so.
Egypt's first-ever televised presidential debate – between eliminated presidential frontrunnersAbdel-Moneim Abul-FotouhandAmr Moussa– was held on 10 May. Many observers criticised that face-off saying it had adversely impacted both candidates' electoral chances.
In last month's first-round poll, Abul-Fotouh came in fourth place with 18 per cent of the vote and Moussa at fifth place with 11 per cent.
A runoff between Morsi andShafiq is slated for 16 and 17 June.
Egypt's next president will be formally named on 21 June.
https://english.ahram.org.eg/News/44566.aspx