American Ambassador to Cairo, Anne Patterson, has suggested that continued demonstrations will not bring stability to Egypt, instead advising protesters to form political parties to express their grievances.
Patterson’s statements come days before mass protests planned by opposition groups, led by the Tamarod ("rebel") petition campaign, marking the first anniversary of President Mohamed Morsy's taking power on 30 June.
"Some say that street action will produce better results than elections. To be honest, my government and I are deeply sceptical," Patterson said during a Tuesday morning seminar held at Ibn Khaldun Centre for Development Studies to discuss the U.S. position on Egypt's current political situation.
“Egypt needs stability to get its economic house in order, and more violence on the streets will do little more than add new names to the lists of martyrs," the diplomat argued in statements also published on the US Embassy website. "Instead, I recommend Egyptians get organized. Join or start a political party that reflects your values and aspirations.”
“The government of the United States of America supports Egypt, its people, and its government," Patterson stated.
The seminar was attended by a number of opposition party members, including from the liberal Dostour Party and Free Egyptians Party, as well as activists from the Popular Current.
The US ambassador reportedly requested media not attend the event.
