The family of the late President Gamal Abdel Nasser gathered to commemorate the 56th anniversary of his death on September 28. His children, Abdel Hakim, Mona, and Huda, were present to receive delegations that came to pay their respects. This annual event helps the family cope with their grief and recall the day of his passing. Abdel Hakim Abdel Nasser noted that this year's commemoration was different from previous years due to the varying ages of attendees and the presence of young people visiting his father's tomb.

Abdel Hakim Abdel Nasser responded to claims that his father was responsible for Egypt's economic issues, including the decline of the Egyptian pound. He stated that when his father took office, the pound was equivalent to 36 piasters, and after 16 years of rule, it was worth 42 piasters, despite the economic blockade imposed by Western countries during his presidency. Abdel Hakim emphasized that the state has been pursuing an economic policy diametrically opposed to his father's since 1975.

Abdel Hakim criticized those who accuse his father of causing the pound's decline, calling them "unaware" and telling them to seek treatment if they are unable to cope with their disappointments. He stressed that such accusations are unacceptable and that his father's legacy should not be blamed for Egypt's current economic challenges. The commemoration of President Nasser's death is an opportunity for Egyptians to reflect on his presidency and legacy.

Dr. Mohamed Abu El-Ela Radwan, head of the Arab Democratic Nasserist Party, stated that the party continues to work towards achieving the goals set by President Nasser since the July Revolution. Radwan emphasized that the Nasserist project remains relevant despite the passage of time since his death in 1970. The party aims to carry on President Nasser's work and ideals.

MP Attaf Magaweri, a member of the House of Representatives for the Gathering Party, highlighted the significance of visiting President Nasser's tomb. Magaweri described President Nasser as a symbol of national pride and dignity, who built a country with international stature during his 16-year rule. Despite attempts by some to erase his memory from the Egyptian people's consciousness, Magaweri noted that President Nasser remains an integral part of the nation's identity.

The commemoration of President Nasser's death is a testament to his enduring legacy in Egypt and the Arab world. His presidency, which lasted from 1956 to 1970, was marked by significant national and international developments that continue to shape the region. President Nasser's vision for Egypt and the Arab world remains influential, with many regarding him as a champion of Arab nationalism and social justice.

As Egyptians continue to reflect on President Nasser's presidency and legacy, his family and supporters reiterated their commitment to preserving his memory and ideals. The annual commemoration of his death serves as a reminder of the impact he had on Egyptian history and the ongoing relevance of his vision for the country's future.

Key points

  • President Abdel Nasser's legacy continues to be celebrated by Egyptians, who view him as a champion of national pride and dignity.
  • Abdel Hakim Abdel Nasser criticized those who accuse his father of causing Egypt's economic issues, including the decline of the Egyptian pound.
  • The commemoration of President Nasser's death serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in Egypt and the Arab world.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.