Egypt’s New Cabinet Sworn In Amidst Economic and Political Challenges

Egypt’s new Cabinet was sworn in on Wednesday in Cairo, marking a significant development in the country’s political landscape. The new Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Mustafa Madbouly, who has been in office since 2018, includes major changes in key portfolios such as defense and economy. While some ministers remain in place, the changes come at a time when the country faces significant economic and political challenges.

Egypt is struggling with an ailing economy, raging conflicts in neighboring nations, and mounting public discontent following years of economic mismanagement, the coronavirus pandemic, and regional conflicts. The country’s economic woes have been exacerbated by a Western-backed reform program adopted in 2016, which has caused prices to soar and nearly 30% of the population to live in poverty.

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In a bid to address these challenges, the new Cabinet includes significant changes in key portfolios. Ahmed Kouchouk, a former World Bank economist, has replaced Mohamed Maait as finance minister, while Sherif Fathy has taken over as Tourism and Antiquities Minister. Mahmoud Esmat has been named to oversee the electricity ministry, and Badr Abdelatty has been appointed Foreign and Migration Minister.

The new Cabinet also includes four women and several technocrats, and was sworn in before President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, who began his third term in December. The changes come as Egypt struggles to revive its lucrative tourism sector, address power cuts, and navigate diplomatic leadership amidst regional conflicts.