He studied engineering in Egypt and the USA and was professor of engineering at Zagazig University (1985–2010). Active in the Islamist Moslem Brotherhood organization, he was a member of Parliament (2000–05). Following Mubarak’s overthrow (2011) he won the 2012 presidential election as the Brotherhood’s candidate. Soon after assuming office he asserted his authority over the army, which had sought to limit the new President’s powers. However, a subsequent decree extending his powers and his support for an Islamist draft constitution (approved by referendum and implemented in December 2012) deepened Egypt’s political divisions and led to mass demonstrations. In July 2013 he was overthrown by a military coup and imprisoned.