A human rights lawyer widely seen as the last real challenger to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi withdrew from the 2018 presidential race on Wednesday. The Military Prosecution later on Tuesday issued a statement banning media coverage of its investigation into Anan. A number of senior former army generals and civil society figures were present, including Sami Anan, the former chief of staff. It also said Anan's announcement on Saturday "constitutes direct incitement against the armed forces with the intent of causing a rift between it and the great Egyptian people". Presidential hopefuls have until January 29 to collect enough signatures to officially submit their candidacies.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 25, 2018 16:18 UTC