"Absurdity" is how Mohamed Mahdi Akef, the General Guide of the Muslim Brotherhood, describes the recent events in Egypt and Algeria, following the competition between the two countries in a World Cup qualifying match.
There has been violence against Egyptians and Algerians in both countries, as well as reported attacks on Egyptians in Sudan after the decisive game was played there on Saturday. This violence, Akef said, is an indication of the lack of both nations’ cultural values.
Speaking to Al-Masry Al-Youm, Akef said what is happening is proof that the interaction between the two countries lacks ethics. "It is an artificial crisis to conceal the real corruption and oppression due to lack of seriousness between two Arab countries in which the media was involved," the Brotherhood leader said.
Meanwhile, Essam el-Erian, the head of the Muslim Brotherhood’s political bureau, said what happened between Egypt and Algeria is an "Arab scandal."
"This signals the level the Arab states have reached. It is a tragedy," el-Erian said. "A soccer game should not be the reason for two Arab countries to sharply engage in a battle at the media level. Responsibility rests with three parties, including politicians and media men who fanned the flames, as well as some businessmen."
Translated from the Arabic Edition.
