Egyptian authorities have shut down at least twelve private TV channels and have detained dozens of opposition figures in the run-up to the upcoming elections Tuesday, Egypt's main satellite operator the channels were shut down for violating broadcasting licenses. The bans by NileSat were called "corrective measures" to protect the Egyptian and Arab viewers from the offending channels. NileSat warned 20 other channels as well.
Last week Egypt's telecommunications regulator set new rules for companies sending text messages to multiple mobile phones. These companies must now obtain licenses. Activists charge that this will stifle voter mobilization.
Meanwhile, according to Muslim Brotherhood sources at least 164 of their election campaign supporters have been jailed ahead of the elections. A security official unofficially confirmed that more than 150 members have been rounded up.