Coptic businessman Hānī ‘Azīz upset the Coptic Orthodox Church in Alexandria by holding a large press conference in support of parliamentary candidate Dr. Mufīd Shihāb, promising him the Coptic vote and the Pope’s personal support. Pope Shenouda III previously said, however, that the church is not affiliated in any way with ‘Azīz. Coptic activist Joseph Malāk said that the Coptic people disapprove of anyone using the Pope’s name for personal gain. Sources confirmed that the Pope refuses to support parliamentary candidates in fear of influencing Coptic votes.

Key Words: Hānī ‘Azīz - Dr. Mufīd Shihāb - Pope Shenouda III - Joseph Malāk – Bishop Rūways Marqus