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Protesters Pack Tahrir to Push Military Council on Unfulfilled Revolutionary Demands
Tens of thousands of protesters rallied in Tahrir Square on Friday for what was billed as the “Second Day of Rage.” Demonstrators called on the Supreme Council of Armed Forces to fulfill a number of revolutionary demands, including an end to military trials of civilians, an increased minimum wage, a free media and the public prosecution of former regime officials.
The turnout was impressive despite a boycott by the Muslim Brotherhood, which released a statement in support of the Supreme Council and called on people not to attend the demonstration. It marked the first time the Brotherhood did not support a major protest since January 28th. The boycott was coupled with widespread rumors of potential thuggery and violence at the protest.
Nevertheless, Tahrir Square was packed on May 27th. We spoke with some of the protesters about their demands.
2nd Day of Rage from Nicole Salazar on Vimeo.
2nd Day of Rage from Nicole Salazar on Vimeo.
You can also check out photos from the protest.
Sharif Abdel Kouddous. Independent journalist. Democracy Now! correspondent. Based in Cairo. Nicole Salazar. Photographer, Videographer, Editor. Democracy Now! Multimedia Producer. Based in Cairo.
7 Comments so far
Show AllThe Egyptian revolt with its revolutionary ideals is DOA. The military (real rulers) have abandoned the ruling dictator (mouthpiece) to placate the masses. It's an well worn script.
Really? The Egyptians don't seem to be giving up quite as easily as that. For being DOA, that movement looks alive and well from here.
Take note, Amerikans: this is what democracy looks like. (I simply love the irony inherent in the fact that, after all our wars and destruction waged in the name of forcing democracy (Goldman Sachs-style, of course) down the throats of Afghans and Iraqis, it's the Egyptian people who are actually going to show US how it's done.)
Viva! Egypt: You rock!
You ever wonder why so many "no hope" cynics continue to read CD articles? If there's no hope why comment, unless your purpose is to inoculate others from having hope.
Yes, I imagine liveitnow is shilling for the corporate party.
Meet the new boss, same as the old boss? Maybe so, but these protestors seem indefatigable in their quest for true economic and democratic reforms, May they be successful, and may the inevitable crushing of this movement be ineffective and defeated. In Europe, America, and North Africa and the Near East, the cry for an end to the dictates of neoliberalism and its stranglehold on the world is resounding and growing. May it too end in success and the oligarchs be brought to justice.
We should watch and remember the strategies of those responsible for the "Arab Spring". We may be able to use them in the future when it is we who no longer support those who steal not only our money but more importantly our rights.