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Thousands of people started to gather in various locations in Cairo and other Egyptian cities early Tuesday, ahead of what protest organisers were hoping would turn into a “march of a million” by day’s end.
Marking the start of a second week of protests, the march calls for the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak and his government, and economic and democratic reforms.
Mr. Mubarak has ruled Egypt for nearly 30 years, using strict emergency laws which grant police wide—ranging powers. Elections in November for Parliament were widely seen as being rigged in favour of the ruling National Democratic Party.
The internet in Egypt was down for the fifth straight day amid reports that mobile phone networks could be restricted later in the day.
In Cairo, the march will focus on Tahrir Square in the centre of the city, the presidential palace and other landmarks. Similar protests are planned for some of Egypt’s other main cities.
Banks, stock markets and many businesses have been shut since last week in the country of 80 million people. Nearly half the population is below the age of 35 and poverty is rife, amid high unemployment and a rising cost of living.
Marking the start of a second week of protests, the march calls for the ouster of President Hosni Mubarak and his government, and economic and democratic reforms.
Mr. Mubarak has ruled Egypt for nearly 30 years, using strict emergency laws which grant police wide—ranging powers. Elections in November for Parliament were widely seen as being rigged in favour of the ruling National Democratic Party.
The internet in Egypt was down for the fifth straight day amid reports that mobile phone networks could be restricted later in the day.
In Cairo, the march will focus on Tahrir Square in the centre of the city, the presidential palace and other landmarks. Similar protests are planned for some of Egypt’s other main cities.
Banks, stock markets and many businesses have been shut since last week in the country of 80 million people. Nearly half the population is below the age of 35 and poverty is rife, amid high unemployment and a rising cost of living.