Programs of presidential candidates in Egypt

The state run mass media in Egypt started to discuss and highlight candidates political programs by concentrating on President Hosni Mubarak whose programs include promises to continue political and economic reforms and focusing on the problem of unemployment, health insurance for all citizens, and improving living conditions for people of limited income.

Other candidates discussed, through the newspapers of their parties or the government's press and even through TV programs, the outlines of their programs, which all had common promises for serious political reforms and solving chronic problems the society is suffering including unemployment, price increases, as well as plans concerning the shape of the coming government and Egypt's foreign policy.

Certain candidates asked for the backing of the legally banned Muslim Brothers group in Egypt. Reports say that the ruling party is making contacts with the group to get support for its candidate. Contacts by Ayman Nour and Fawzi Ghazelle with the Muslim Brothers group seeking their support were also confirmed.

Muhammad Habib, deputy chairman of the general guide of the Muslim Brothers considered the visits of the presidential candidates to the headquarters of the group as a normal matter, noting that the group enjoys a vast popularity and political influence.