Egypt Cabinet Pulls Rug From Under Military Gov

The political leaders sitting on the Egyptian cabinet have sparked crisis talks after tendering their resignation over the brutal suppression of protestors by the military Government.

Over 30 people have been killed and more than 2,000 injured during a third day of violence and protests in Cairo, as people push for elections, fair treatment and the removal of the military generals currently ruling the post-revolution Egyptian state.

Demonstrators are continuing to fill the country's city centres, as well as the focus of the previous revolution, Tahir Square, as they demand that the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (Scaf) hand Egypt over to civilian rule.

On Monday evening, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and four independent United Nations officials voiced alarm at the violent crackdown on protesters in Egypt, and urged the country’s interim authorities to guarantee the protection of key liberties ahead of next week’s first parliamentary elections.

Mr. Ban, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, deplored the loss of life and the many injuries.

“The Secretary-General calls on the transitional authorities to guarantee the protection of human rights and civil liberties for all Egyptians, including the right to peaceful protest,” the statement said.

“He urges restraint and calm by all parties to enable a peaceful and inclusive electoral process as part of Egypt’s transition to democracy and the early establishment of civilian rule.”

The military junta has appealed for calm and expressed 'deep regret' for the deaths of protesters, however video footage of police and army brutality against unarmed demonstrators has been circulating in recent days, further enraging demonstrators.

(DW)