Egypt deploys troops ahead of national protests

Egypt deploys troops ahead of national protests

2012-02-10 20:04:24 GMT+7 (ICT)

CAIRO (BNO NEWS) -- Egypt's ruling generals have deployed troops across the country as the opposition calls for civil disobedience to mark the first anniversary of Hosni Mubarak's ousting as president, local media reported on Friday.

A statement issued by the ruling military council on Wednesday said that more patrols will be deployed across the country to "maintain the security ... of public, private and state buildings." Activists have called for a national strike and civil disobedience campaign on Saturday to demand a swifter transition to civilian rule, the Al-Ahram newspaper reported.

Troops and tanks began appearing at various strategic points in Cairo on Wednesday evening. Prime Minister Kamal Al-Ganzouri told a press conference that calls for civil disobedience were part of a plan to "overthrow the state" and urged Egyptians to unite.

The opposition accuses the army of blocking real reform of the security forces, which enjoyed virtual impunity under Mubarak. At least 15 people have been killed and hundreds more have been injured since clashes erupted in Cairo and the port city of Suez last week.

The violence came after 74 people were killed and more than 300 others were injured in riots following a soccer match in Port Said. Security forces were widely accused of deliberately declining to intervene in the country's deadliest ever football riot.

Following the Port Said stadium clashes, thousands of supporters hit the streets, demanding the removal of Egypt's military junta from power and the transfer of power to civilians. The junta, which has been in charge since Mubarak was ousted last year, has said presidential polls will be held by mid-June.

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