Demonstration Calls for Civilian Rule in Egypt

Thousands rally in Tahrir Square in Cairo, Egypt demanding the resignation of the Supreme Military Council that is now governing the North African state. The youth and workers want fundamental change inside the country., a photo by Pan-African News Wire File Photos on Flickr.

Protesters call for civilian rule in Egypt

Fri Oct 7, 2011 4:59PM GMT
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Egyptian protesters once again have gathered at Cairo's iconic Liberation Square to demand a speedy transfer of power to civilian rule.

On Friday, Egyptian protesters gathered in central Cairo in a bid to keep up the pressure on the country's military rulers over the pace of reforms.

Protesters demanded that the supreme military council lift the emergency laws previously used by former ousted dictator Hosni Mubarak against the opposition.

The angry demonstrators also called for an end to military trials for civilians. Hundred of Egyptian civilians have been tried at military courts since the ouster of Mubarak in February.

Egyptians demand a civilian government and are worried that the military rulers may be secretly plotting to remain in power after parliamentary and presidential elections, which are supposed to take place by the end of this year.

The Egyptian military assumed power in the major African country following the downfall of Mubarak's US-sponsored dictatorship earlier this year.

The ruling generals are nevertheless reportedly seeking a political role as the 'guardian' of the nation, which will provide the military with the chance to have a say in all the country's future policies.

However, Field Marshal Mohammad Tantawi, Mubarak's defense minister for 20 years and the current head of the military council, has denied reports that the military was after nominating one of its members as presidential runner.

According to UPI report, Egyptian political parties have also protested against the worsening economic situation in the North African country.

At least 846 people were killed during the recent uprising in Egypt, which led to the eventual fall of Mubarak on February 11, 2011.

Most Egyptians are still skeptical about a rapid transition towards democracy and civilian rule in the country .