Egyptian state officials, members of parliament and the country's pro-government media are fervently working to contain the anger on the streets and prevent a recent wave of dissent from escalating into a full-blown political crisis.

In attempts to appease disgruntled Egyptians who took to the streets on two consecutive Fridays last month to demand the resignation of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the authorities have promised a set of policy changes, including reductions in prices of basic commodities and an easing of restrictions on the media .

"The coming period will see political, media and party reforms. The people have shown that they are united behind the country's political leadership and the authorities will reward them handsomely [for their support]," parliament Speaker Ali Abdel Aal said in an inaugural address at the opening of the parliament's fifth session Oct. 1.

"We [Egyptians] cannot afford the luxury of [having] differences. Building nations during transitions necessitates harsh measures as it is during such periods that institutions and infrastructure are built; without them, states cannot progress," he told members of parliament.