The Rise of Electoral Salafism in Egypt and Tunisia: The Use of Democracy as a Master Frame

Abstract

Following the outbreak of the Arab Spring revolutions, Salafi parties have been established in Egypt and Tunisia. They tend to have ultra-conservative views on social and gender issues, but have denounced the use of violence. The al-Nour party in Egypt and the Reform Front in Tunisia have advocated the implementation of Sharia by democratic means. They have chosen to campaign through the parliament and within the constitution. However, their participation in the political system of post-revolutionary Egypt and Tunisia is a puzzle given Salafism's rejection of democracy. The article will utilise framing theory to understand why electoral Salafis have endorsed democratic practices to gain support and survive politically. It will first explain the content of the democracy master frame. Then the article will describe the political transformation of Salafism in Egypt and Tunisia. Finally, it will analyse how Salafis have adopted the democracy master frame to achieve their political...