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Egypt's military chief Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi announced Wednesday he would run for president in a forthcoming election he is expected to win handily.
In a televised statement, el-Sissi, who also announced his resignation from the military, said he could not "perform miracles" and called on Egyptians to work hard to improve their country.
Wearing his military uniform, el-Sissi said he would "give up the uniform to defend the nation" and run in elections expected next month.
Under Egyptian law, only civilians can run for president.
El-Sissi said events in recent years have shown Egyptians cannot be forced to elect a president they don’t want. He added that his candidacy should not preclude others from running.
The 59-year old military chief deposed President Mohammed Morsi last year following violent protests calling for his ouster.