DHAKA: Egypt’s army chief Field Marshal Abdul Fattah al-Sisi has said he will run for president.

A Kuwaiti newspaper says, reports the BBC.

Asked by the al-Seyassah newspaper if he would be standing, the army chief said he had to meet the wishes of the Egyptian people and run for election.

He had been widely expected to declare his candidacy but there has been no official confirmation from the army.

The army leadership backed him to stand in the election last month, promoting him to the rank of field marshal.

Presidential elections in Egypt are due within six months.

BDST: 1220 HRS, FEB 06, 2014