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Opposition alleges irregularities

Atul Aneja

Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak likely to win another six-year term

MANAMA: Egypt's long-time leader Hosni Mubarak is expected to win Wednesday's presidential elections by a wide margin amid allegations by Opposition groups of serious voting irregularities.

The Government hailed the polling as a success, though media reports suggested that voter turnout was low. Mr. Mubarak's strongest rival, Ayman Nour, said only 15 to 20 per cent of registered voters in the rural areas voted, while the turnout in the urban areas stood at 3 to 5 per cent. All results were expected by Saturday.

Nine candidates have challenged Mr. Mubarak, out of which Mr. Nour of the Ghad (Tomorrow) party and Nomaan Gomaa of the Wafd party are seen as serious contenders. The Wafd was once an active liberal party, and had played a key role in fighting for independence from Britain. It has weakened considerably due to political restrictions imposed during the past 50 years. Authorities have banned Muslim Brotherhood, the largest political group, from contesting. Opposition parties have accused the Government of manipulating the polls. .

Mr. Nour said the elections "are not fair at all" and that he knew of instances where voters were bribed. The Associated Press said election workers inside polling stations in Luxor instructed people to vote for Mr. Mubarak. In Alexandria, voters alleged that workers from the ruling National Democratic Party promised food to those who cast a ballot.

A spokesman for the Election Commission said they had not received any complaints. The authorities had allowed equal air time on television to all contestants.

Analysts point out that Mr. Mubarak has a head start over other candidates as they are relatively unknown to the electorate on account of curbs on political activity that have lasted several decades. Besides, many voters have given weightage to "stability," which they hope Mr. Mubarak's Government can provide for the next six years.

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