Abdullah Gul: Egypt must restore its fledgling democracy – and fast

Egypt has always been an engine of progress in its region and beyond. As the inheritor of so many great civilisations, and as the flagship of the Arab world, Egypt and its people have led by example; and the nation’s achievements, failures and changes of direction have been watched and felt not just across the Middle East and north Africa, but across the whole Islamic world.
After the January Revolution in 2011, Turkey supported the Egyptian people in their quest for freedom, democracy and honour. I was the first head of state to visit the country after that great change. Since then, Turkey has spared no effort to help consolidate the country’s fledgling democracy, and to make sure that its political system embraces all segments of its people.
I personally encouraged leaders in Egyptian politics, the military and in civil society to seize this historic opportunity to work together for the good of their nation. I urged moderation, restraint, patience, perseverance and – most importantly – inclusiveness. I also stressed the need for economic revival; Turkey’s support for Egypt’s economy was intended to make sure that Egyptians could feel the benefit of the new era in their daily lives.
Unfortunately, the historic step towards democracy failed in less than two years. The coup that ousted Mohamed Morsi, Egypt’s first democratically elected president, was a clear derailment of the country’s progress. Perhaps the deadlock could have been avoided. Maybe this situation could have been averted by calling for early elections. But problems should, in any case, have been corrected through democratic mechanisms.
Our own experience has taught us how important it is to keep those mechanisms functioning and to remain committed to open democratic values. This is not a mantra only for the good times. At moments of peril, it is more important than ever to stick closely to the democratic path.
Egypt is now going through a delicate process that will define not only its own future, but also the fates of young democracies emerging after the Arab spring. During this critical time, every possible step towards either reconciliation or further fragmentation will leave its mark on the future course of both the country and the region. The significance of constructive and well-articulated steps to be taken now by all the relevant parties, inside and outside Egypt, is obvious.
The Egyptian people have almost been split into two camps, each of which is rallying dangerously against the other. This situation is worrying and unsustainable. Already, scores of people have lost their lives during demonstrations on streets and squares. What we need now in Egypt is not a people divided against themselves, but a nation rallying around its future. Daunting economic and social problems can only be overcome if Egyptians join their efforts together and do not spend their energy on political division.
Egypt’s future lies in democracy, where the free will of the Egyptian people prevails, constitutional legitimacy is upheld and where rights and freedoms are guaranteed. No other solution will be right for Egypt – and nothing short of it will bring stability. That is why everyone must do their utmost to win a democratic future for the country. Under the current circumstances, it faces a risk of further polarisation.
At this juncture, I believe the following steps are vital to put democracy back on track. First, a quick return to democracy – which was the aim of the revolution – through an inclusive transition process, is of utmost importance. Second, all political groups should be allowed to take part in the forthcoming elections. The exclusion of any political party will undermine the success of the ensuing period. Third, release of Mr Morsi and his fellow politicians would make a tremendous contribution to reconciliation and stability. Fourth, everyone should exercise restraint to avoid further casualties. Further loss of life could make recovery unattainable, even if the leaders in Egypt act with their best intentions to break the deadlock.
Turkey will do what it can to bolster its relations with Egypt, in light of our strong cultural ties – and to help Egyptians keep their country on a democratic path. They deserve a much brighter future. Let us all work to win a bright future for this great nation that is so dear to us.

Abdullah Gul is president of Turkey

Fonte: FT