Security measures have intensified on Friday at Cairo’s Tahrir Square as thousands started to flock there for a mass demonstration in support of the goals of the 30 June revolt that prompted the Armed Forces to remove former president Mohamed Morsy from office.
Protester-run security groups have been positioned at all square entrances, especially at Abdel Moneim Riyad Square and the Qasr al-Nil Bridge. Army and police vehicles were omnipresent.
“People demand the fall of the regime,” and “People and the army are hand in hand,” some protesters chanted, urging from the main stage that political groups participate in the protest in order to fend off potential assault by pro-Morsy demonstrators.
Banners were put up at square entrances. “No safe exit for criminals and faith mongers,” said one, likely referring to the Muslim Brotherhood and its Islamist allies. Some demonstrators gave out posters of Defense Minister Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who forced Morsy out of office, while other posters criticized the toppled leader and Brotherhood members.
Five army aircraft flew over Tahrir Square to mark Egypt's victory in the 6th October 1973 war against Israel, which fell on the 10th of Ramadan. The planes were met with applause and jubilation from demonstrators.
A security source said that the Armed Forces plan to send one of its musical bands to Tahrir Square as part of the celebrations.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
