In recent days, Egyptian activists have called via social media for Egypt to unite in the face of the current "constitutional crisis," as some describe it. The appeals come following parliament's overwhelming — and rather swift — approval of controversial amendments that would allow President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to extend his rule, potentially by 12 additional years after his current term ends in 2022. More than 80% of lawmakers voted in favor of the constitutional changes on Feb. 14, paving the way for Sisi's power grab and for further entrenchment of the military in politics.

"The power of rejection is formidable. Close ranks and unite. We shall win," tweeted Amr Waked, an actor and activist who has been a vocal critic of Sisi's policies. Using the hashtag #NoToConstitutionalAmendments, Waked urged his followers to reject the proposed amendments and to wear black on the day of a planned referendum "to prevent the vote from being rigged." By wearing the same color, voters opposed to the amendments will be immediately recognizable and thus able to fight the government's claims that Egyptians are overwhelmingly in favor of the changes.

Former diplomat Mohamed ElBaradei, meanwhile, urged Sisi to reject the "unconstitutional amendments" and to remain true to his pledge of allowing a transfer of power. He reminded Sisi of his earlier statements that "the days of dictatorship are behind us," which ElBaradei described as one of the gains of the revolution. "Living up to these promises is important in order to avert deeper divisions in the country," he tweeted.

In November 2017, Sisi promised to honor the constitution and to not seek a third term in office. "I will not stay one more day as president if it is against the will of the Egyptian people," he said.