EGYPT FORMER HOUSING MINISTER TO BE NEXT PRIME MINISTER
He said he would immediately start consultations on the appointment of a new cabinet, Egypt’s Ahram reported as quoted by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA).
A former member of Hosni Mubarak’s National Democratic Party (NDP) and ex-chairman of Arab Contractors, one of the region’s leading construction companies, Mehleb will succeed Hazem El-Beblawi as prime minister.
During a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, Mehleb outlined the goals and priorities of his new cabinet, which he said would be formed within three to four days.
He added full logistic, financial and moral support will be given to the police.
The post of defence minister, currently occupied by Field Marshal Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, will be appointed by the president.
Some observers have said the cabinet’s resignation was designed to facilitate a presidential bid by El-Sisi, which he cannot do if he remains defence minister.
El-Sisi is the one who declared ousting of first freely elected president Mohamed Morsi on July 3, 2013, followed by ongoing massive protests by anti-coup alliance who demands reinstatement of the president.
Mehleb thanked his predecessor as prime minister, Hazem El-Beblawi.
“I thank Hazem El-Beblawi who taught me a lot. I have much respect for him and my colleagues at the [housing] ministry. Only God knows the loyalty and commitment they have shown in such crucial times.”(T/P03/P04)
Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)
