Presidential candidate Mohamed ElBaradei called for immediate intervention to counter religious extremism, after sectarian clashes in Imbaba left 12 people killed and 186 injured.
“Urgent measures required to combat religious extremism & intolerance before Egypt slides into the dark ages,” wrote ElBaradei on Twitter.
Activist and Google employee Wael Ghoneim Tweeted that “The only solution for sectarian strife in Egypt is implementing law and justice among people without exceptions.”
Nasser abdel Hamid, a member of the 25 January Revolution Youth Coalition, said the events points to security failure. “Egyptian citizen cannot live in fear. It’s unacceptable that Egyptians be intimidated to that extent. There should be strict action taken against anyone who commits such violence,” he told Al-Masry Al-Youm. “Salafis are committing unacceptable acts that society rejects as they threaten security and stability.”
The coalition called on Prime Minister Essam Sharaf to form a popular committee to resolve sectarian conflict. The union also highlighted unity so as to face those who want to tarnish Egypt’s image.
Meanwhile Minister of Interior Mansour al-Essawy visited the Saint Mina and Virgin Mary churches in Imbaba, northwest Cairo. He spoke with the residents, who requested tightened security and the defeat of thuggery. Essawy urged people to cooperate with the police to restore security to the streets, pledging to fulfill his responsibilities.
Translated from the Arabic Edition
