Illusions of reform

By Gamal Fahmi

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Those who only a few weeks ago entertained the thought that the despotic ways of Arab political systems are doomed now know better. Our constitutional and legal system, meticulously designed as a barrier between government and citizenry, is alive and kicking. Only weeks ago, reform was a daily mantra, a titillating anticipation, a repeated promise by the elites in most Arab countries. This was because America was making no secret that it had had it with the miserable condition of regimes and allied governments in the region.

The chorus of reform reached a crescendo when Washington launched in its democratic vision under the Greater Middle East slogan. But the vision soon crumbled. One reason is that it was recklessly drafted. Another was that the US involvement in Iraq became even more disastrous after news of Abu Ghraib was leaked. The torture scandal destroyed any semblance of credibility the US may still have had to sponsor democracy in this region or anywhere else.

The erosion of the US vision was good news for Arab governments who were wondering if Washington was pulling their leg, trying to put pressure on them, or was really serious. The setback in reform, one has to admit, is due to the abatement of foreign pressure. Even the rhetoric of reform has dissipated. Now rumours repeatedly emerge that the only reform that might evolve is an irrelevant cabinet reshuffle. If anything, this proves that democratic transition in any society has to be supported by indigenous action. Outsiders may help, even inspire, but it's up to locals to see that things get done.

This week's Soapbox speaker is managing editor of newspaper, issued by the Nasserist Party .