The parliamentary elections Egyptians face next month may very well be more substantial than the first Presidential one they encountered last month. Through these elections many hope to influence the stranglehold the National Democratic Party (NDP) has on both the upper and lower houses of parliament (upwards of 85%). For an overall view on the status, significance, as well as the movements related to the elections read “Egyptian Presidential Candidates, Bloggers, and Parliamentary Elections” submitted to Egypt Today for publication.

Sandmonkey reports on how the fragmented opposition is uniting in a coalition against the NDP. This coalition is short Al Ghad however; whose leader took a strong second in the previous presidential elections. Ramblefish reports on inter-turmoil at Al Ghad house.

Freedom for Egyptians posts on Mubarak promising free and fair elections though Liberals Against Terrorism and The Arabist Network point to the new ICG report on Egypt to counter such an argument.

Miss Mabrouk mentions a “demonstration for fair and free parliamentary elections … organized by the Muslim Brotherhood's student organization.” though many are skeptical.

A new movement dubbed Itharak.com is geared towards getting out the vote and minimizing the NDP members of parliament. This new site is set up around three main points it encourages all Egyptians, particularly those between 18 and 23 (since they are pre-registered) to endorse:

1/ Go register for a voters card (one of the major obstacles in the last election as you can only apply in November)

2/ Go vote for anyone in this Novembers Parliamentary elections other than the NDP candidate (especially if the candidate is an incumbent).

3/Go get three others to pledge to do the same.

Also banners for Itharak.com are available here.