As the Arab Spring triggered an overthrow of the Mubarek regime in Egypt, and cries for democracy had Muslims and Christians in the country protesting literally hand-in-hand, there are hopes that a new government and constitution will emphasize religious freedom and the embrace of religious diversity. Early returns from recent elections, however, indicate a big victory for the country's Islamist parties. The NYTimes reports:
Responding to reports that the two Islamist parties together could form a majority of the new Parliament, the Brotherhood’s Freedom and Justice Party denied that there was any “alleged alliance” with the ultraconservative party, Al Nour, to form “an Islamist government.”
The statement appeared to be aimed at quieting the anxiety of Egyptian liberals and Western governments about the unexpectedly large share of the vote apparently won by Al Nour, which was formed by the ultraconservative Islamists known as Salafis. It also reflected the fine line that the Muslim Brotherhood is walking as it tries to hold together its most ardent Islamist supporters in the streets without provoking a backlash at home or internationally.
The proof of course will be not in which party governs the country but how they govern. Tension aimed at Egypt's Coptic Christians has created a violent, explosive environment in recent months. It's up to the newly elected government to provide calm, safety and freedom.
