In his first televised interview as a presidential candidate, former military leader Abdel Fattah al-Sisi vowed that the Muslim Brotherhood would not exist under his presidency and delivered a glimpse of how he envisioned his tenure. The reactions were mixed: His supporters cheered for him as a statesman with a firm hand, which, in their view, the country needs to restore law, order and security; his opponents saw in his talk chilling evidence of an oppressive style of someone who has spent all his adult life giving orders and expecting them to be obeyed, no matter what.

The interview lasted for five hours and was split into two episodes, broadcast May 5-6. The interview was recorded several days before, meaning the content was edited. Both hosts, Ibrahim Eissa and Lamees al-Hadidi, and the two channels they represent, are strong supporters of Sisi.

Sisi cited the grave dangers facing the country and the millions of Egyptians who could suffer if the state collapses as the main reasons behind his presidential run, contrary to an earlier announcement that he would not run. In the first part of the interview, Sisi showed a great sense of urgency in current and future challenges facing Egypt, as well as determination to overcome these difficulties.

Sisi repeatedly implied the obvious — that many Egyptians wanted him to run, but he is running on his own terms. “I do not owe … deals to anyone,” he kept repeating. He made it clear that if the country is to be saved, things must be done his way. Yet, the new constitution limits presidential authorities when it comes to domestic policy, which is mostly handled by the parliament-approved prime minister.