CAIRO: Archeologists protested on Wednesday despite warnings by the ruling Supreme Council of Armed Forces that ongoing sector protests were a risk to the economy.
Dozens of archeologists congregated in front of the Supreme Council of Antiquities in Zamalek seeking full time employment. About 200-300 gathered later at the Egyptian Museum and marched to the cabinet and the nearby Parliament buildings, chanting against SCA chief Zahi Hawass and demanding and end to corruption.
The protesters claimed that instead of employing Egyptians in restoration projects, the Ministry of Culture has resorted to foreign archeologists.
“We work for private businesses that are hired by the ministry to restore these antiquities,” said Mohamed Nassar, a graduate of the School of Antiquities at Cairo University, class 2002.
“Instead of hiring private institutes, why doesn’t Mr. Zahi Hawass hire us so we can work for our country,” he added.
In response, the ministry promised to hire 500 new employees at a salary of LE 450 a month.
“We wouldn’t mind being hired for LE 450 each but only if they hold themselves accountable,” said Doaa, one of the protesters who said she works with Hawass’ exploration team on a daily wage.
Other protesters demanded an end to the entire internal system of the Ministry of Culture.
“It’s a culture of corruption and will continue even though Mubarak left,” said Nassar and four others at the protest said.
“The problem is that the ministry does not have a proper plan to involve everyone and make use of our skills rather than paying thousands of euros for outsiders.”
