Facing a ruinous economic crisis, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi recently decided it was time to hold talks with what was left of Egypt’s political opposition, giving them a seat at the table after nearly a decade of repression, prison and exile.
But to an authoritarian leader like Mr. el-Sisi, reconciliation only goes so far.
Islamists were barred from the dialogue, and much of the secular liberal opposition was not invited.
Crucial topics, including anything to do with the ill-defined matter of national security, were off limits.
Yet the economic overhaul the government promised has added up to mostly talk and little action.
Persons:
Abdel Fattah el, Sisi, Mr, hemming
Locations:
Egypt