Mubarak finally steps down; Egypt born again

Cairo, Feb 12: Egypt experienced an anxious 24 hours in anticipation that their prayers would be answered with the exit of President Hosni Mubarak. And their prayers were answered indeed. The 30-year rule of the President finally came to an end and euphoria grasped the entire nation, especially Tahrir Square on Friday (Feb 11) night.

When Vice President, Omar Suleiman, announced the end of Mubarak's reign in Egypt, people went ecstatic and started celebrating by hoisting flags, lighting fireworks and beating drums. The joy of the people knew no bounds and their celebrations continued throughout the night.

President Mubarak was forced to hand over the power to the army following 18 days of protest by the entire country. Suleiman announced that a military council would run the affairs of the most populous Arab nation.

The people have been assured that a free and fair presidential election would be conducted during Sep 2011.

Mubarak ho, Mubarak to go!

US President Barack Obama, who drew immense criticism for his take on the Egypt issue, stated that Egypt's victory proved that triumph can be achieved without "violence and terrorism."

Obama also stated that, "The people of Egypt have spoken." He also stressed to the US-aided army that, "Egyptians have made it clear that nothing less than genuine democracy will carry the day."

Meanwhile, leader of the main opposition party and Nobel Peace laureate Mohamed ElBaradei, claimed that, "This is the greatest day of my life."

A strong reaction was also rendered by Ayman Nour, the only man who dared to challenge Mubarak in Egypt's multi-candidate presidential election. Mr. Nour stated that, "This nation has been born again, these people have been born again, and this is a new Egypt."

However, expressing concern over the power of the army in the nation, Egypt analyst Michele Dunne asserted that, "The state was really beginning to disintegrate. The military really had to wonder if they were going to lose control if they didn't act."

OneIndia News