Source: Middle East Institute
Author(s): Mirette F. Mabrouk
Original Link: https://www.mei.edu/blog/mena-coronavirus-update-region-faces-unprecedented-crisis#egypt
Egyptian governments have always been sensitive to what might be called the “religion factor.” This has generally meant a certain deference to any matter seen as touching on the religious beliefs or practices of a generally devout society regardless of the actual religion or denomination. This probably explained why, in the midst of a global pandemic, people were allowed to flock to Friday prayers, despite a religious edict saying they should pray at home, and why churches held extra services, supposedly to avoid overcrowding.
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