Most Copts received SMSs on the eve of the People's Assembly's first-phase election asking them to vote for certain liberal candidates as well as the Egyptian Bloc, a coalition that comprises the Egyptian Social Democratic Party (ESDP), the Free Egyptians Party and the leftist Tajamu' (Grouping) Party.

Tracked, the messages, on both cell phones and e-mails, turned out to have been sent by Mowatna.sh, which is the name given to secret committees inside the churches that find facts and offer recommendations.

The church's support for independent candidates was based on several criteria, including their support for the church, regardless whether they are Copts or Muslims. The church also backed a number of leftists and liberals advocating a civil state in addition to businessmen who have good relations with the church.

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