Egypt's Sisi Affirms Term Ends in 2030, Vows No Constitutional Changes and Prepares Future Leaders

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi stated on October 17, 2026, during a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy that his current presidential term will conclude in 2030, describing the matter as "completely settled" and ruling out any amendments to the constitution.

Multiple international outlets reported the remarks, which came amid regional tensions including Egypt's support for Saudi Arabia against Houthi threats and ongoing disputes with Ethiopia and Sudan. Sisi, 71, is serving a six-year term following his 2023 re-election, enabled by 2019 constitutional amendments that extended terms from four to six years and permitted a third term.

"The Egyptian constitution would not be touched," Sisi said, adding that he would not leave the state "until it is brimming with its own people capable of shouldering responsibility." He outlined plans for the military academy to train up to 300 PhD holders aged 40-50 in a 30-month program focused on state leadership, aiming to build a new generation of officials for roles including the presidency, ministries, and parliament.

The statements were widely covered by Reuters, which noted the reaffirmation of constitutional limits, and echoed in reports from Al Jazeera, The National, and Arab News. BBC Arabic highlighted prior similar comments from Sisi addressing online speculation about term extensions. Sisi also pledged Egypt's readiness to defend Saudi Arabia if requested, subject to parliamentary approval.

These developments occur against a backdrop of Egypt's military involvement in regional conflicts and domestic human rights concerns, though the immediate focus remains on the president's commitment to the 2030 timeline.