Mass pro-reform protests planned in Egypt
\nJul 15, 2011<\/p>\n
CAIRO – ACTIVISTS have called for rallies across Egypt on Friday, capping a week of nationwide sit-ins to demand political change as anger grows with the military rulers over the slow pace of reform.<\/p>\n
More than 28 movements have called for the rallies which seek to pressure the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) – which took power when president Hosni Mubarak was toppled in February – to respond to their demands.<\/p>\n
Protesters are calling for a defined and transparent plan for the transition, criticising the military junta for their absolute grip on power.<\/p>\n
Among the key demands are an end to the military trials of civilians, the redistribution of wealth and the open and speedy trials of former regime officials.<\/p>\n
They also want police accused of torturing and killing protesters – whether before or during the January 25 uprising – to be brought to justice.<\/p>\n
The mounting tension has prompted both the government and the military council to offer some concessions in a bid to placate the protesters. — AFP …source<\/a><\/p>\n