As Deadline Approaches, Egyptian Factions Fight for Influence

With less than 24 hours left before the military's ultimatum to Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi comes into effect, various political factions from the Muslim Brotherhood, members of the opposition and the military are scrambling to secure influence before the end of the army's 48-hour deadline. Military sources leaked to Reuters a draft of the military's "political roadmap," which reportedly may involve the suspension of the constitution, the dissolution of the Islamist-dominated parliament and rule by an interim governing council until new elections can be held. The leak is most likely intended to test public reaction and see if the plan is a palatable solution for Egypt's competing political forces. Going forward, the military will continue attempting to satisfy all sides, including the Brotherhood, as it seeks to bring calm and order back to the country.