Turki Al-Sheikh: Proud of President Sisi's stance towards Arab brothers - Sarmad

Turki Al al-Sheikh, head of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, commented on Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s statements, including his pledge to defend Saudi Arabia and his confirmation that he will step down at the end of his presidential term in 2030.

In a post on his Facebook page on Saturday, Al al-Sheikh expressed “pride and honor” over el-Sisi’s remarks supporting Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, but he also voiced sadness and concern about Egypt’s future after el-Sisi’s presidency ends.

Al al-Sheikh said that el-Sisi’s statements stirred feelings of pride and Arab solidarity in him, but also brought back memories he described as difficult, adding that he feels deep sadness and anxiety about Egypt’s next phase.

He explained that he is going through unstable health conditions, and that earlier this year he began making arrangements to spend some time resting in Egypt, away from social obligations. He affirmed that Egypt is his second home, and that what happens there matters to him as much as it does to any Arab who cherishes the country.

Al al-Sheikh recalled events of 2011, noting that Egypt then faced security and political unrest, along with economic and social challenges. He considered that el-Sisi took responsibility during a difficult period and contributed to maintaining the country’s stability and implementing development and reconstruction projects.

He concluded his post by expressing concern about Egypt’s future after el-Sisi, saying: “I am truly sad today… I ask the president’s pardon, I will certainly be worried after you.”

El-Sisi had previously reiterated his stance that Egypt’s constitution, approved by the people, would not be tampered with, nor would constitutional terms for the presidency be amended.

El-Sisi said: “The period leading up to 2030 will mark the end of my presidential term in the country, and this matter is firmly settled with no room for discussion.”