Varied Demonstrations Fill Tahrir Square


“Tens of thousands” of Egyptian protesters filled Tahrir Square under the protest banner “Friday of Determination” in one of the largest gatherings since the ousting of Mubarak. Protester groups gathered for varying reasons: a group of Salafis poured into the square to show that they “are part of the nation;” others spoke of “religious solidarity;” while the April 6th Youth Movement called for “speedy trials of ex-regime members and price controls.” Protesters also chanted “Down with the Marshal,” referring to Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, head of the governing Supreme Council of the Armed Forces. In general, protesters appeared angry that change since the fall of Mubarak has been so slow.