Egypt's higher military council has dissolved the parliament and suspended the constitution. In a statement on state TV, the spokesperson of the council said that it has set an approximate six-month timetable for democratic elections that would bring a new civilian government to power. It announced that a new constitution would be drawn up subjected to a referendum. The Egyptian Prime Minister Ahmad Shafiq has said that the cabinet will stay and caretaker government's priority now is restoring security. Addressing a press conference after the first Cabinet meeting since Mubarak was forced to step down; Prime Minister said that his main concern now is to bring security back to the Egyptian citizen. He also promised to lower the prices of essential goods in the country. Meanwhile, Egyptian troops scuffled with protesters in Tahrir Square yesterday as soldiers moved in to dismantle the protest camp. Several protestors wanted to see a clear road map towards democratic transition before leaving the square. Egypt has also faced labour unrest, including a demonstration by police yesterday, which reflected the challenges of steering Egypt toward stability and democratic rule. The life in the city is otherwise returning to normal. Country’s Antiquities Minister Zahi Hawass has informed that 18 objects were looted during the anti-government unrest. Talking to official al Ahram media, the minister added that Investigators are questioning those already in custody since the break-in last month. Egypt's antiquities chief says that lost items include two gilded wooden statues of Tutankhamen. Around 70 objects have been damaged.
News On AIR | February 14, 2011 8:42 AM
Egypt: Parliament dissolved, constitution suspended, 6 month time given for democratic elections