Morsi running in the footsteps of Nasser, but only the wrong footsteps.

In my previous posts, I criticized Dr. Morsi for dealing with formalities (namely attending graduation cerimonies) and not working on being a president. Where is the 100 day plan? I asked. Where is the government? I asked. Well Dr. Morsi has finally done it. He has starting choosing his government. And if taking history into account. His choice is a little baffling.

Dr. Hesham Qandil, chosen by Dr. Morsi to be Egypt's Prime Minister 

(Courtesy of Al Masry Al Youm)

Dr. Morsi has chosen the first (and most crucial) member of his cabinet, the prime minister. The prime minister should be a person that has proven themselves in getting things done. We're talking a class A executive. A person that deliver results and leave the planning to others. And who did we get with this choice? Dr. Hesham M. Qandil. Why baffling? We not the choice about who, but more why? I have not seen Dr. Qandil's CV to judge whether or not is he capable of being a top class government executive. But I have questions about the choice.

Now I am feeling a little bit of Deja Vu here and I am specifically referencing a previous government. President Nasser's government. One of the biggest attributes to the previous dictatorship we lived in was that fact that Nasser chose to surround himself with loyalists not experts. And as such Egypt's growth was stunted and theft, nepotism, and bribery grew abound. So is Dr. Morsi's choice based on loyalty or expertise?

Some will say don't judge yet, wait and see. We the issue I have here is that Dr. Qandil has already had a chance to prove himself. He's been the Minister of Irrigation since Dr. Sharaf becoming Prime Minister. So not only is he technically from a pre-morsi cabinet, the one that Dr. Morsi's party the FJP wanted to withdraw confidence from previously, but i don't recall hearing about him or his accomplishments. Again I am not judging Dr. Qandil yet, but the question remains out of 82 million individuals, is this the best Egypt has to offer?

In Summary, Dr. Morsi seems to be making the same mistake that President Nasser made previously by surrounding himself with people of loyalty rather than people of knowledge. Will this lead to the same problems that has stunted Egypt's growth before. To para-quote a famous Indiana Jones movie, "Choose, Morsi. But, choose wisely".

-Amro

PS - Morsi Meter still at ZERO and 24 days have passed

More formalities and Weapons Drills - minipost

Courtesy of AlAhram Online

Once again, our president has been a source of wonder. Again he attends the latest graduation class of the Military College. Really? Is that you major directive? Attend as many graduations as possible?

I just happen to catch the show which was simulcast on Egyptian Satellite Channel, Oula Channel and Nile TV. Because it is that important. *eye roll*

The military "display" during the graduation ceremony seriously made me laugh. From the "weapons display" which was completely out of sync to "power displays" that were devoid of any reality. Now I completely understand why we suck at action films.

Want to see an amazing military display? Click on link

Cool Weapons Drill

Now that's a drill.

I'd love to hear your comments.

Amro

Enough with the formalities, Get with the program Morsi!

Dr. Morsi head to Addis Ababa in Ethiopia to attend the African Union summit. His second visit since heading office. And there is yet to be progress on the 100 day program that is was put into play to help address the immediate needs of the Egyptian people.

Is it me or is there way too much formalities being addressed at the cost of the Egyptian people? Where is the new government? The same government that the Freedom and Justice party, that was headed by Dr. Morsi and that was the parliamentary majority, wanted to withdraw confidence from. Apparently the current government it worthy of confidence, or is it?

It baffles me to a great extent the lack of progress. Where are the promises of great investments that the FJP made? Where is the new constitution? Our neighbor, Libya, not only elected a new parliament, they have also put forth a new constitution. Did they learn from our mistakes? Maybe.

I believe that we need to address the following issues with the new government:

1. Transparency

We need a government that is transparent in their actions, we need a constant stream of updates of their progress. Even if they haven't achieved something, we'd know they are working on it.

2. Improving Quality of Life (QoL)

Quality of life is one of the most important factors that affect people. We are talking about, working with governmental institutions that is made easier and more efficient, Clean environments, encouragement of growth and entrepreneurship, and availability of general goods and accessibility of services.

3. Speed of Action

The previous government (During Mubarak's rule) had many ideas and initiatives, some that would actually do good. However, they always failed in speed of action or even completion. We are still faced with an archaic system that follows the same rules. Today we live life at the the speed of the internet. We have grown impatient at processes that take years to accomplish. We need action and we need it NOW!

4. Long Term Planning

In addition to plans for a better Egypt today, we need to address where will Egypt be in years beyond the government's expiry date. Ten, twenty, even fifty years from now. And more importantly how we can provide better transparency, QoL, and Speed of action in those up coming years.

In Summary, Dr. Morsi should stop enjoying the formalities and get with the action. The people are getting impatient and restless. We need positive steps that the people can feel. I doubt Dr. Morsi would be taking this at a snails pace if he felt a lot more was at risk.

Whiskey, Tango, Foxtrot

As many know recently Dr. Morsi has issued a presidential decree that returns the parliament that has been disbanded by the Supreme court. Move considered by many a direct challenge to SCAF. But, what makes this almost comical is that there are many implications that arise out of this. Who's the bad guy, and more importantly is there a bad guy?

Lets look at the Supreme Court for a second. Before Dr. Morsi was elected to power, the supreme court disolved the Egyptian parliament which consisted mostly of islamists from the Freedom and Justice party (FJP) of which Dr. Morsi was president. And, at the same time allowed Air Marshal Ahmed Shafiq to continue in the presidential race. This was considered by many a move to put Shafiq into power and a sign that the Supreme court was was assisting the military in forging the voting results in favor of Shafiq. And as we all know now, that didn't happen. After Dr. Morsi won, it was accepted that the Supreme court did their job without bias and acted in according to law.



Fast forward to earlier this week. It seems that the dissolving of the parliament didn't strike the fancy of Dr. Morsi and decided to flip the bird to the Supreme Court. A move which means that he doesn't agree with the original ruling. So now the Supreme Court are bad guys?



You can't treat the legal system like an a la carte menu. Take what you want and avoid what you don't. Otherwise, what's the point of a legal system. Let's just keep it a dictatorship just like Mubarak. Also, it seems to me that Dr. Morsi is favoring certain people (just like Mubarak) while forgetting to address the people that put him into power (at least Mubarak wasn't chosen by the people).

Look around, I'm still waiting for any of the 64 points on the 100 day plan to be addressed. Still traffic, still dirty, still security issues. From now on anything fucked up that happens I will not address as WTF but more as WTM (What the Morsi)


Amro

New post coming soon

I will be posting a major post today. Sorry for the delay in posts as I have been out of the country and without Internet. On your marks, get set, wait for it....

Amro

Morsi breaks the law. Newton's First Law that is!

Newton's 1st law is the "Law of Inertia" and states:

Every object in a state of uniform motion tends to remain in that state of motion unless an external force is applied to it.

So basically an object in motion continues in motion unless another force affects it. Now we know what the law is. How did Dr. Morsi break it? 


Since Dr. Morsi has been elected into power, many promises have been made, 100 day programs have been planned, and even shows of humility have been staged. This is the 5th day since Dr. Morsi has officially taken office and yesterday and today have read nothing new about him. No new decisions have been taken, no debates have been raised. Why the sudden drop in momentum?

Courtesy of AlMasry AlYoum Online
The only piece of news today was about Dr. Morsi observing the graduation of the latest class from the Naval Academy. Really? Have we achieved everything and now it's time for formalities? Even yesterday, I couldn't find anything important enough to write about! Have the poor been fed, jobs been filled, streets cleaned and bedtime stories read that we have time for formalities ?! If you're working on the "down-low" I believe we need to know. 85 million minus 5 lives (Morsi's family) are at stake here. 
Dr. Morsi, do you realize that this job, we the people, hired you for, isn't an easy job? Do you realize that its a 24 hour a day job? Did you know that you will be losing sleep, friends, time with family? But in return, it comes with great power. Power that should be used to make history! 

Stress is part of the job
When I started this blog, I expected an avalanche of updates, almost to the point I was worried that I wasn't going to be able to keep up. But now, five days in, the MorsiMeter stands at 0/64. If you can't keep up, you shouldn't have applied for the job. 
In Summary (thanks for the correction Sharif), Being the president of Egypt isn't a walk in the park. True there are formalities associated with the job. But priorities should be given to addressing the promises you made, not attending graduation parties. 
Amro

Where's my security Morsi?

During the second phase of the elections, many were shocked that Dr. Morsi and Air Marshal Shafik were the ones to come out on top. Especially Shafiq. One of the main attributes that people attributed that to was his promise to restore security in Egypt within a day. While Dr. Morsi promised security as a part of his 100 day program to tackle five initiatives: Fuel, Traffic, Cleanliness, bread and Security. By, the current headlines it appears that security is on the bottom of the priorities.



One of the biggest security issues being talked about today is the "islamic vice squad" a group of extremests that have caused the death of a student in Suez last week. The student was walking in the street with his "fiance" late at night. Members of the "Islamic vice squad" stabbed the students in a sensitive part of his body causing his death.

Another major issue is the smuggling of arms to sinai. Not to mention the current threat that the sinai peninsula is turning into a haven for outlaws due to the lack of proper security forces there. A situation that is causing the Israeli border forces to be on high alert.

Dr. Morsi, security is a big issue and why it hasn't been addressed as such is a big concern. It is one of the biggest concerns that can win over people. Not appearing in Tahrir square without a bullet-proof vest or a meaningless 15% salary increase for governmental workers (link).

In summery, know where to focus your resources to solve real problems. Not winning a popularity contest. RIP Ahmed Eid, my God give your family the patience to deal with their loss.

Merry Morsi, and Free Money for All

As one of the biggest decision to be taken by the President, Dr. Morsi, ordered in his first cabinet meeting the increase in salaries of government workers by 15%. In Addition to the increase of social welfare a whole 100LE  from 200LE to 300LE per month. The later effect over 1.5 million citizens. Sound good, free money. But the question is, where will this money come from?

The 15% increase will effect millions of government workers. Ranging those whose salaries are 400LE per month to those whose salaries range in the tens of thousands. But is that necessary? Should it effect everyone? Also, what about workers in the private sector? They don't benefit from this increase. Even if their salaries are in the same range as government workers. Where is the social justice that the revolution called for?

The increase also puts a burdon on the government budget that is already strained. When asked where the money will come from. The answer was, loans. REALLY?! Do we not learn from history? I could think other things to be done with the money that are more impactful. Why not use the money to improve healthcare that effects tens of millions of Egyptians? Why not use it to improve public services? Clean the streets? Things that effect the quality of life of all egyptians? Not just government workers.

The 15% reminds me of the old saying, "give a man a fish and you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and you feed him for a life time" . Why are we giving away fish? Do you think the merchants will not see the increase in salaries and in turn increase the prices of goods. That happens with every previous salary increase. So basically we are back to square one.

Dr. Morsi, your decision in this regard is highly flawed. A better decision was to apply a minimum wage across the board, public and private. A move that will at least help those who need help. Dr. Morsi tread carefully, murky waters lay ahead.

-Amro

Dr. Morsi tries tackling traffic, totally!

(Traffic in Cairo is a major issue)

If you were to ask any Egyptian on the street to solve only one problem about Egypt, they will most likely answer "Traffic". Traffic is pretty much the social status equalizer. Regardless of social or economic status, everyone in Egypt, including tourists, suffer the overcrowded mayhem that is the streets of Cairo. So big a problem, it is in fact on Dr. Morsi's list of things to address in the first 100 days of his presidency.

Dr. Morsi has turned to the JICA (Japanese International Cooperation Agency) for help. Apparently they have offered their assistance many times before, but their offer was always turned down for unknown reasons. (ref. ahram link). JICA and the Egyptian government are already on their way to addressing the problem and Dr. Morsi has vowed that the problem be solved in 90 day. Trying to beat the 100 day promise are we?

I have always said before to my many politically active friends, "Whomever solves the problem of traffic and addresses the problem of Quality of Life, will win the hearts of all Egyptians". And it looks like Dr. Morsi is starting with the right areas. The main question arises, "If there are quick fixes, why haven't they been done before?".

Summery, if I were president, the first thing I would have addressed would have been traffic. And if first steps are an indication of what is to come, then you win me over once again Dr. Morsi. But remember you are still in your probational period and I am still not your biggest fan. Don't let us down.

-Amro

The Morsi Meter Starts Tomorrow.

One of the most interesting websites to come out since Dr. Morsi has been elected president is www.morsimeter.com . A website designed to measure Dr. Morsi's performance in carrying out his promises within the first 100 days of his presidency. I must admit it was one of the inspirations of this blog. So don't forget to check it out.

www.morsimeter.com

-Amro

Free Speech or Speech for Free

(photo by Mohamed Omar courtesy of Daily News Egypt)

Yesterday Dr. Morsi addressed the crowds at Tahrir square and today an assembly at Cairo University. I thought of analyzing the speech. But then, thought "actions speak louder than words". I will stick to analyzing Dr. Morsi's Actions.

One of the interesting bits about the Tahrir speech was the fact that he "swore" himself in infront of the people. Something I believe (as mentioned in my previous post) is more important than swearing in infront of any other governmental entity. While some have called it a slap in the face of SCAF, I say "Chapu".

However, one of the bits that caught my attention came before after the speech as Dr. Morsi was arriving and then leaving. There is a sense of acceptance among the people. Even if I am not one of them, the imagery is powerful. Gone are the days where the presidents security detail are there to protect him from his own people.

Also there is a lot talk going around about the bit regarding the "bullet proof vest" that Dr. Morsi said he isn't wearing. To me that proves nothing, especially with the level of security present around him. 

Dr. Morsi, you are slowly gaining the trust of the people. This is a slow processes. However, it can be undone with a single word. 

-Amro

The fine line between humility and necessity

Being the President of Egypt, Dr. Morsi's job comes with quite a few perks. Security detail, Car with driver, paid travel via private jet, board, and whole lot more. Not to mention that many of these perks are paid by us, and by us I mean the tax payers. There is a reason the President gets these perks, many I believe are out of necessity. However, some people have an issue with these perks. Because its very easy to abuse the perks given to you as President.

A few days ago, Dr. Morsi ordered that his picture not be posted at government offices and asked that governmental institutions not post congratulatory ads (which cost a lot by the way) in the papers. A move I believe to appear closer to the people. And just yesterday, Dr. Morsi gave orders that the presidential motorcade not block traffic (link). And I, for one, am all for that. A president closer to the people. Or is it?

Just the other day there was a rumor that Dr. Morsi sent his younger son to take his finals using official presidential cars. Not only that, but that his son took the exam alone, not with the rest of the students. (link) Perk abuse?! Well, it was found out that while Dr. Morsi's son did go to the exam via presidential cars, his son attended the exam with his peers. But did he have the right to use the cars to ferry his son to and from the exam? In my opinion, yeah he did.

You see, perks at any job are fun to have. They make your life easier, show appreciation, and in some cases necessary for security and job continuity. Yes, I do believe his son has the right to be transported via presidential cars. It's a security thing. The president's immediate family is a source of his stability, if that were to be jeopardized so would his performance and in turn so will our country.

It may seem that I am swooning over Dr. Morsi. Hardly. I am being honest and fair in my opinions and steering away from any conspiracy theories.

But basically 4 points

• Pictures or not: Irrelevant 
• Congratulatory Ads: Positive move
• Motorcade not blocking traffic: For the love of God, YES!
• Family using presidential cars: From a security perspective, I believe they should.

-Amro

Morsi's Vices and Swearing, the Presidential Kind.

Two major problems are facing Dr. Morsi. First he wants to have 3 vices, and second to swear in an appropriate place. What in the world am I talking about?! I'm talking about presidents for the former and Oath for the latter. Naughty either way you look at it.

Dr. Morsi has vowed to appoint 3 Vice Presidents, of which, one is to be christian another to be female, and the last God knows what. Interesting! Is this a pacifying tactic of some sorts or affirmative action (link). Or does he already know who he is hiring based on merit and they happened include a Christian and a woman and decided to use it to his advantage? Depending whether or not I summon my conspiracy theory alter ego or not, I will assume that its all a big pacifier to calm down women and christian fears. What if he hires a Christian woman? Does that have the same effect? Just a thought. But the real question is: Do we need THREE vice presidents?

I thought the duty of the Vice President was to be the first person in succession to the President if something were to happen to the president. What if Dr. Morsi is unable to carry out his duties as president? Who would succeed him? Would we have a supreme council of presidency (SCOP)? Don't forget there's already SCAF president. What would be the roles of each VP? Wouldn't it be easier just to appoint them as ministers? So many questions! Even more controversial questions like: What about a Salafi VP as well? For God's sake we've never had a single VP in the last 30 years. All of a sudden we're to have THREE?

In my humble opinion, a single VP should do. His role is simple, a shadow president. So keep it simple Dr. Morsi, find your shadow. Looking for a pacifier? How about a female minister of Finance and a Christian minister of Defense.

As for the swearing in as President. Simply put, its a promise. To whom? The answer should be where Dr. Morsi should be swearing. His promise is to the people. Swearing infront of the SCAF or Supreme Court means he's promising a select group who were hired by the old system. His accountability is to us, his employers.

My firm belief is he should be sworn in infront of the people, or representatives of them. The People's assembly. Since they don't exist, it should be in public. Obama did it, why wouldn't Dr. Morsi? With the constitution still being written. The people are the true power, SCAF or not.

Summery, single VP, swear oath in front of the people.

-Amro

President elect Morsi, welcome to the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Many have written letters publicly addressing Dr. Morsi. Many have written about concerns, fears, advice and praise/criticism. From politicians to activists, TV personalities to Presidents of other nations. Some he will read, many will fall on deaf ears. This blog is not a letter to Dr. Morsi. It is a letter to the people from the people (or person in this case). My own view, my own attempt at doing my part. Whether read my many or not, I have my platform and I intend on using it.

In this blog I plan to address Dr. Morsi as an employee of the people. We have the right to judge his performance, give him praise when deserved and criticize his decisions if we feel the need to. But, like any employee, a fair chance must be given for performance. While I did not vote for him (whether I abstained, nullified or voted for Shafik is irrelevant), the "majority" of the Egyptian people have brought him to power, and as true believer in democracy I accept the the decision of the Egyptian people over any personal feelings I may have. 

I admit the job comes with hefty baggage and practically no hand-over. It's like being a delivery man with no idea what the packages are or where they are supposed to go. Worst yet, he's expected to deliver all the packages and maintain customer satisfaction. Tough job? Hardly. Mission Impossible? He'd hire Ethan Hunt. Job level: WTF

Whether it's evaluating his 100 day plan like www.morsimeter.com or just day to day actions, I will attempt in my own humble way of giving my perspective while trying to keep it light. This blog is in no way trying to be a deep political analysis, just an opinion. Sometimes it will be witty other times funny. Maybe even enlightening. There is no goal here but to say my piece, while hopefully keeping the peace. 

-Amro