Egyptians Elect New Parliament Representatives: Shaping the Future of Egypt's Legislative Landscape

Egyptians began voting Monday in the first phase of parliamentary elections that will shape the country's legislative landscape for the coming years. About 35 million people are eligible to vote in this round, which covers 14 provinces and runs for two days.

Egyptian expatriates already cast their ballots Friday and Saturday at embassies and consulates across 117 countries worldwide. The voting process appears to be running smoothly, according to election officials.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly voted early Monday morning at a polling station in Giza province and encouraged Egyptians to participate. "By completing this constitutional requirement, the formation of both chambers of the Egyptian parliament will be complete," he said. This would start "a new phase of national legislative work and continued effective cooperation between the government and parliament."

The parliamentary elections come about three months after Senate elections held in August. Egypt is rebuilding its full bicameral legislature, which gives the government a complete parliamentary framework to work with on domestic policies and reforms.

The National Election Authority oversees the voting process under full judicial supervision. Ahmed Bendary, the authority's executive director, told reporters earlier Monday that "the electoral process is proceeding smoothly and easily." He noted that crowding at some polling stations in certain provinces was being managed through better organization.

This first phase covers major population centers including Alexandria, Giza, Fayoum, Minya, Sohag, Assiut, Qena, New Valley, Beni Suef, Luxor, Aswan, Red Sea, Matrouh, and Beheira provinces. The second phase will take place November 21-22 for overseas voters and November 24-25 domestically, covering the remaining 13 provinces.

For Egypt's government, completing these elections means having a full legislative body to support ongoing economic reforms and infrastructure projects. The new parliament will likely face decisions about budget priorities and economic policies as Egypt continues managing its financial challenges.