CAIRO: Thousands of protesters across the country marked the first anniversary of Jan. 25 by demonstrating and chanting against the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), demanding a swift transition to civilian rule.
In Mansoura, some 10,000 protesters took to the streets, including members of political forces such as the Mohamed ElBaradei Campaign, Abdel Moneim Abol Ftouh Campaign, the April 6 Youth Movement, the National Association for Change and youth of the Muslim Brotherhood — who participated as individuals. Members of the MB, however, traveled in an official capacity to celebrate in Tahrir Square.
"We have been marching across the city all day, demanding handing over powers to civilian rule immediately. Chants are bold against SCAF and there is no festive atmosphere since protesters believe justice for the martyrs has not yet been served," activist Mohamed El-Bakry told Daily News Egypt.
In Luxor, more than 1,000 protesters demonstrated in El-Haggag Square against military rule while members of the MB celebrated with the city’s military commander and the governor, Ahmed Sayed, member of the Revolution’s Youth Coalition in Luxor, told DNE.
"Protests witnessed strong participation by women and a lot of support from normal citizens who, even if they did not join the protests, made their support clear — especially after our data shows of military violations from the 3askar Kazeboon (Military Liars) campaign," he said.
Thousands of protesters in Assiut demonstrated across the city as five marches merged: including from the Lawyers’ Syndicate, and others led by the ultra-conservative Al-Jamaa Al-Islameya and the Revolution’s Youth Coalition.
"All these marches chanted against military rule and gathered in El-Shaheed Ahmed Galal Square, and continued touring the city," member of a popular committee in Assiut, Haitham El-Masry, told DNE.
"Two other marches belonging to the MB, estimated to reach a couple of thousand — one of which was a women’s march — toured the city to celebrate the first anniversary," El-Masry added.
In Aswan, hundreds protested in El-Mahatta Square, including members of the April 6 Youth Movement, the Kefaya movement, the Revolution’s Youth Coalition and Al-Wasat Party, activist Ahmed Ragab told DNE.
In the canal city of Suez, more than 10,000 protesters gathered in the main square chanting: "From Suez to Tahrir, down with the Field Marshal."
"This is a demonstration, not a celebration," said Mustafa al-Masry, one of the leaders of a Suez-based revolutionary group.
Protesters also took to the streets in several provinces of the Nile Delta and in the Sinai peninsula, security officials said.
Protests also took place in Tanta, Daqahleya, Damietta, Gharbeya, Qaliubiya, Sohag, Qena and Hurghada. –Additional reporting by AFP
