Egypt repression may lead to new Brotherhood offshoots

Subject

Muslim Brotherhood fragmentation.

Significance

Rumours of reconciliation between President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi and the Muslim Brotherhood, circling since June 2016, have intensified in recent months. Although there is no concrete evidence confirming the validity of the claims or that an agreement is currently plausible, the rumour is indicative of pressure that the Muslim Brotherhood is under.

Impacts

• The Brotherhood will find it difficult to retain its pre-revolution form.
• A youth group offshoot could take a more aggressive and violent approach towards the regime.
• Despite the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood's suppression and marginalisation, it will retain support and political presence in the region.