Egypt’s ruling party announced over the weekend that it would back 82-year-old Hosni Mubarak if he decides run for another term as president in 2011. So far, the ailing Mubarak hasn’t said whether he will seek another term. National Democratic Party leader Safwat Sherif was quoted as saying his party was anxiously waiting for Mubarak’s decision. The Egyptian leader has ruled the country since 1981. There has been speculation about his health following his gallbladder surgery in March.
Also, there is much speculation that Mubarak is grooming his son, Gamal, to take over. The statements could be seen as a gentle nudge to the elder Mubarak to make a decision, which would leave time to build support for his son should he decide not to run.