Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said the role of the state is to serve all citizens equally, including those who do not follow any religion, stressing that government institutions must represent the entire population without discrimination based on belief.
The remarks came during a Ramadan iftar banquet hosted by the Police Academy, attended by senior officials, ministers and police cadets. Speaking at the event, President Sisi drew a distinction between the role of personal faith in individual life and the broader responsibilities of the state.
According to the president, religion is primarily connected to personal conduct such as prayer, fasting and moral behavior while the state must govern a diverse society that includes people with different religious backgrounds as well as those who do not adhere to any faith.
President Sisi said that because modern states encompass a wide range of beliefs, their institutions must be designed to serve everyone equally. “The state is responsible for all citizens,” he said, noting that societies include Muslims, Christians and others with different convictions.
The president also warned that misunderstanding religion can create divisions within society. He described ignorance particularly ignorance related to religious teachings, as one of the most serious challenges that can face nations, arguing that confusion between religious practice and state responsibilities can lead to social tensions.
His comments come amid ongoing debates in Egypt about religion, citizenship and the role of the state in public life.
While the constitution of Egypt guarantees equality before the law and prohibits discrimination based on religion or belief, the legal framework formally recognizes only three religions: Islam, Christianity and Judaism. This structure leaves atheists and followers of other belief systems without official recognition in several administrative and legal procedures.
Public identification as an atheist remains uncommon in Egypt, where religious identity continues to play a central role in social and cultural life. Individuals who openly identify as non-believers may face social stigma or criticism in a society where religion remains a key part of public discourse.
President Sisi’s remarks highlighting the responsibility of the state toward all citizens, including those without religious affiliation, are therefore notable in a country where discussions about belief and secular citizenship often generate public debate.
