So
far these organizations have mostly lacked popular support, as well as sup-
port from any other indigenous agents that might be interested in bringing
about political change. But they have helped draw people’s attention to some
important issues, like the human rights question, growing social injustice and
environmental problems.
In the long run Egypt’s economy will only be able to survive vis-à-vis
the highly competitive international economy if the country’s society is
granted a chance of full political participation, so that it can play an active
role in development. The organizations for businessmen, for bankers and for
importers and exporters have already voiced their interests and put pressure
on the government to expand the private sector further. Finally, Egypt’s
economy will only flourish if the government starts rewarding competency
rather than loyalty.