Attempt to Rig Judges’ Hotel With Explosives Foiled in Arish

An attempt to rig a hotel housing judges in Arish with explosives was foiled, according to reports highlighted in Wednesday’s Egyptian press. The brief account provided no further details about the operation.

On the election front, sources cited indications that voter turnout could reach 32%. Seven female candidates were also reported to be contesting runoff races.

Prime Minister Sherif Ismail announced urgent measures to improve the investment climate and bring unemployment down to 10%. The government was also reported to be negotiating with the World Bank over financing for the 1.5-million-feddan land project.

In health news, reports said access to the hepatitis C treatment Sovaldi would be accelerated from Wednesday, with dispensing taking 15 minutes instead of a three-month wait.

Other developments included the discovery of an ancient wall at Tell el-Dabaa and the handover of 23 minibuses to operate on natural gas.