At least 10 people were killed with 441 injured in the latest round of clashes between protestors and the military that began on December 16, according to Egypt’s Health Minister Rauad el-Nawawy; however, a divide among Egyptians and their sentiments toward the military is becoming more prevalent. Many continue to remain in the streets protesting the army rule, but other Egyptians are in support of the military hoping that order will soon be restored.
One source who had previously frequented Tahrir Square told Alternative Energy Africa: “It’s too sad. I really don’t know what’s going on.” The conflicts began on the day that had been proclaimed, “Buy Egyptian.” The slogan was started to encourage everyone to buy products made in Egypt on Friday to help bolster the economy, but instead of the day turning into a positive, it went awry. Moataz el Meligue continued to explain that an old Arabic saying had been spoken throughout the day leading to Friday that translates to “Whomever doesn’t buy will only watch.” He added, “It means that it’s a scandal that everyone sees.” So while Friday was encouraged to help Egypt, it only showed the world the division that continues to grow. El Meligue said, “It’s meant that what’s happening between the military and the protestors is disgraceful and scandalous. It does not represent the decent people in Egypt.”
Pictures across the internet and videos on major news stations show an alarming sight as the military began using extreme force against activists. Emad Effat, a senior official of Egypt’s Dar al-Ifta (the religious authority that issues Islamic fatwas or laws) was caught in the crossfire and died. At his funeral on December 17, many mourners came out and chanted “Down with military rule.”
Mohamed Abdel Halim, a 21-year old store owner in Tahrir Square, told Reuters: “We can’t work, we can’t live, and because of what? Because of some thugs who have taken control of the Square and destroyed our lives. Those are no revolutionaries.”
It was reported that 42 people were killed the week before November 28, which started the first phase of parliamentary elections. The second round of voting continued on December 14 and 15, but some governorates had to revote after discrepancies arose from the polling stations. The last run-off vote for the lower house will take place on January 11, just 14 days shy of the one-year anniversary of the revolution which began on January 25, 2011.
Alternative Energy Africa is trying to reduce its own carbon footprint in 2011. Ask about our electronic subscriptions and online marketing campaigns specially tailored for individual companies.