posted
I don't know if the people who keep giving him prizes are dumb or just can't read. No matter how he tries to highlight the fact that he had a small role in th revolution somehow westerners love making too much out of him. It is not helping him at all as people are getting quite annoyed of hearing about him all the time. I know I am.
Posts: 1044 | Registered: Nov 2009
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And he's not the only one who gets awards. Blogger Sandmonkey f.e. just received recognition by the University of San Francisco.
Just a week ago I was reading an article from the NYP stating that Egypt's revolution isn't over and all these blogger who get awards in the US and go for interviews would be better off and stay in their homeland to make this change a successful one.
Btw, I did get annoyed the other day when I read through Vanity Fair, May issue.
15 pages, perhaps even more, with portraits of Egyptian revolutionaries. Really?!?!?!?!
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
Ahhhh..... another million man protest in Cairo this Friday!!!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
The Demands of #May27 Million Man Protest
Here are the demands of the #May 27 million man protest insh Allah at Tahrir next Friday. I found this flyer in Tahrir square. The demands in this flyer are classified in to economic demands , political demands and freedoms demands. First :The economic demands :
Minimum and maximum limit of wages Redistributing wealth to save the country from economic crisis. Controlling prices. Impose progressive taxes Prosecuting corrupted businessmen and confiscating the assets they got illegally Second : The political demands :
The return of police force extensively Prosecuting Mubarak on the charge of treason based on the confession of field marshal Tantawy that Mubarak gave his orders to the army to kill the protesters. Legal and human rights supervision on the newly found national security apparatus and to prosecute all the officers involved in murdering the protests and their torture. Disbanding the municipals. Disbanding the security central force or merger it in the army. Enforcing the voting rights of Egyptians abroad in elections. Dismissing Yahia El Gamal from his positions and prosecuting Omar Soliman. Third : The freedom demands :
No military trials for civilians. Re-prosecuting those convicted in front of military courts after reverting them to civilian courts. To ban the dispersing of strikes with force. Cleaning up the media , we want a media that represents the people not the ruler I found many people do not agree with the economic demands , they feel that they are bit Nasserite and socialist especially the redistribution of wealth.This point made people fear from nationalization. I believe the economic demands were put in the first part of the flyer in order to attract the working class. Other than that the demands are reasonable. I found out that it was written by activist Lillian Wagdy’s father. These demands are actually very close to the demands issued by 6th April youth. The famous group published a list for the demands on the Facebook and the demands of 6th April are :
Justice : Fast , just and public trials for Mubarak and his regime icons. A new committee to be formed for political corruption charges. “We do not have a law for political corruption.” Cleaning up : Cleaning up the ministries especially the ministry of interior , the media ,governorates, the universities and the embassies from Mubarak’s remnants.Dissolving the current municipals. The rights of the revolution’s martyrs and injured : Their right to be treated on the state’s expense and the families of the martyrs. Freedom : Lifting up the emergency laws as long as it is not being used against the Mubarak regime’s remnants and the thugs. Liberating the official mainstream : From the remnants of the Mubarak regime and from those hypocrites to the SCAF , who cut the on air programs because guests criticize the rulers of the country. Securing the nation and its youth : No more double standards in dealing with protests violently or sending youth to military courts while leaving and ignoring criminals and thugs in the street. Bread , freedom , dignity and humanity : Protests should not be banned despite we know that the government is facing huge economic challenges. We want clear strategies and plan for the coming period. The people and the army are one hand : It is not a protest against the army but we have the right to criticize the SCAF Wael Ghonim is using Google moderator to know what we want from #May27 million man protest and most answers came in favor of two demands : Prosecuting the former regime icons and the return of security. Here are the demands I found reasonable to go to Tahrir on May 27th. Of course up till now the reactions online are encouraging but offline , well we need to remind the people that the revolution is not over and we are not looking for another revolution but we are looking for the demands of the first revolution that have not been fulfilled. Now some want it another Day of wrath , Day of revolution or rather second revolution and honestly I do not know what kind of second revolution when the first revolution has not finished yet !? We have still demands that are not fulfilled yet from the first revolution. The first revolution is not over. Any talk about second revolution with my all respect is some sort of political crap with my due respect !! Mohamed Diab wrote about why #May27 should be a million man protest and not a revolution. Many will attack Diab especially he was from the youth that met with some of the SCAF members.
So many demands, so little time..... the economy is down the gutter and parliamentary elections will be held in merely four months.
As I see it Egyptians will be able to protest for the next 20 years.
Don't think that these demonstrations will stop once a new president takes over the country. Egyptians were deprieved of voicing their opinions for many years and now they going to take full advantage of it. Everyone is already out there to demonstrate for his very own interests be it wages, human rights, religious reasons etc. etc....
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: As I see it Egyptians will be able to protest for the next 20 years.
Good for them.
True democracy is not the dictatorship of the majority over the minority - but listening to ALL voices.
Posts: 5593 | From: Egypt | Registered: Dec 2005
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: As I see it Egyptians will be able to protest for the next 20 years.
Good for them.
True democracy is not the dictatorship of the majority over the minority - but listening to ALL voices.
You gotta be kidding me. Time is running out because the elections loom. See the full picture. Vote for the most qualified candidates with actual plans and work it from there.
And as I said there is no end in sight for protests which are completely distracting from the main focus: ELECTIONS.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: As I see it Egyptians will be able to protest for the next 20 years.
Good for them.
True democracy is not the dictatorship of the majority over the minority - but listening to ALL voices.
You gotta be kidding me. Time is running out because the elections loom. See the full picture. End as I said there is no end in sight for protests.
After the elections when you are proven wrong, will you publically apologize on this board for your anti-democracy rantings?
Or does your eastern block east german beginnings blinded your mind against democracy so very completely?
Posts: 2280 | Registered: Oct 2009
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posted
Sonomod, go and work on your dysfunctional life!!!!
************************************************
Rights groups urge 7 ministers replaced
The Egyptian Gazette Tuesday, May 24, 2011 04:22:42 PM
Five Egyptian human rights groups yesterday called on Prime Minister Essam Sharaf to replace seven ministers as well as deputy prime minister Yehia el-Gamal as soon as possible over their alleged failure to "respect expectations of the Egyptian people".
The groups urged Sharaf in a letter to dismiss el-Gamal as well as ministers of transport, health, industry, water resources, civil aviation, housing and telecommunications "for lacking a clear-cut strategy to develop the sectors they lead". "Those ministers and the deputy premier could not achieve expectations of the Egyptian people for lacking a roadmap to the future," the group added in the letter. The groups also called on Sharaf to adopt new ways to improve people's daily life." Otherwise "resign and open the way for new Government to take over such heavy responsibility," they told Sharaf who was picked for the post last March. The groups sending the letter are New World for Development and Human Rights; the Reform and Citizenship; Observers without Borders Network; Advocates of Human Rights; and the Civil Society for Justice and Democracy.
quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: Sonomod, go and work on your dysfunctional life!!!!
************************************************
Rights groups urge 7 ministers replaced
The Egyptian Gazette Tuesday, May 24, 2011 04:22:42 PM
Five Egyptian human rights groups yesterday called on Prime Minister Essam Sharaf to replace seven ministers as well as deputy prime minister Yehia el-Gamal as soon as possible over their alleged failure to "respect expectations of the Egyptian people".
The groups urged Sharaf in a letter to dismiss el-Gamal as well as ministers of transport, health, industry, water resources, civil aviation, housing and telecommunications "for lacking a clear-cut strategy to develop the sectors they lead". "Those ministers and the deputy premier could not achieve expectations of the Egyptian people for lacking a roadmap to the future," the group added in the letter. The groups also called on Sharaf to adopt new ways to improve people's daily life." Otherwise "resign and open the way for new Government to take over such heavy responsibility," they told Sharaf who was picked for the post last March. The groups sending the letter are New World for Development and Human Rights; the Reform and Citizenship; Observers without Borders Network; Advocates of Human Rights; and the Civil Society for Justice and Democracy.
Thats only 7 mininisters, when babaMu was in power he'd replace his entire cabnit every 10-18 months and order the parliment to be replaced almost as often.
At least I am honest about my life and didn't create two more biological children, two adopted, and a number of other falsehoods just to get attention.
Posts: 2280 | Registered: Oct 2009
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: As I see it Egyptians will be able to protest for the next 20 years.
Good for them.
True democracy is not the dictatorship of the majority over the minority - but listening to ALL voices.
You gotta be kidding me. Time is running out because the elections loom.
Don't you mean time is running out because your holiday to Egypt looms? Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: Don't you mean time is running out because your holiday to Egypt looms?
What a nonsense. I wasn't aware that I will spent my vacation in a temporary tent on Tahrir Square.
Hurghada is as much as quite as your Luxor is. I am pretty certain about that. Only problems arise in Cairo. There on Tahrir Square people are getting mobilized to protest.
BUT TAHRIR IS NOT EGYPT.
And the opinions you hear there don't match those of million of other Egyptians around the country.
Everywhere else in the country business is as usual, people are going to work (thanks god at least they know what's currently in the best interest for their own country), they are going on with their lives and try to make the best out of the dilemma which was created through the uprising.
As I predicted already in February most likely by now many many Egyptians are regretting what happened since Jan25. Under Mubarak there was stability now it's all uncertainty. Egyptians care only to a certain degree about freedom and democracy - their moreso worry to put daily food on the table. Freedom and democracy won't fill your stomach. Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
Salafis and Brotherhood to coordinate efforts in parliamentary elections
Khaled Saeed, founder of the new Fadila (meaning virtue) Party, which was founded recently by a group of Salafis, says he has agreed with the Muslim Brotherhood group that neither party will field candidates in areas where the other is fielding candidates during the next parliamentary elections.
“We shall meet in a few days to determine how many parliamentary seats each party will compete for,” he said. “We do not want to antagonize any political party that is based on a religious reference.”
Saeed also said the platform of the Fadila Party is currently being devised by a number of legal experts.
Everywhere else in the country business is as usual, people are going to work (thanks god at least they know what's currently in the best interest for their own country), they are going on with their lives and try to make the best out of the dilemma which was created through the uprising.
They are getting on with their lives because that's in the best interest for them, that's how they feed their families.
quote:As I predicted already in February most likely by now many many Egyptians are regretting what happened since Jan25. Under Mubarak there was stability now it's all uncertainty. Egyptians care only to a certain degree about freedom and democracy - their moreso worry to put daily food on the table. Freedom and democracy won't fill your stomach.
I disagree, they are certainly not regretting what happened and are pleased it did and yes freedom and democracy will feed them and they know they will get through this. They now know how much their 'stable' president and his regime stole from them in monetary terms and in terms of freedom. They ARE upset about the sectarian violence in some areas but only a few think it's not still regime members trying to make them think what you think they already do.
Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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Despite providing a real opportunity for the Egyptian people’s desire for more political freedom, the 25 January revolution also exposed a number of vital problems. These matter more to future prosperity and stability in Egypt and the region than the overthrow of President Hosni Mubarak. Continuing violence is increasingly sectarian, while the economic impact of the unrest worsens the structural obstacles to growth, leaving little hope of improvement for those who revolted against poor living conditions, food inflation and high unemployment. Sectarian violence between Coptic Christians and Muslims has surged.
A number of clashes in recent weeks in the Imbaba district of Cairo killed at least 15, both Copts and Muslims. Reports of non-intervention by security forces has prompted fears that Egypt’s interim military government is incapable of imposing order, particularly as non-sectarian crime has also risen sharply in recent months.But the most pressing problem for the interim government remains the economy, as in most of the Arab Spring countries: “We are very much concerned by the rise in expectations... Sometimes the demands are justified and sometimes they are unrealistic,” Finance Minister Samir Radwan said this week. Due to the recent instability, the economy contracted by around 7% in the first quarter of this year. Tourism revenue, the largest component of GDP, declined by 80%, while the stockmarket tumbled 32% prompted by security fears. The IMF has revised its growth estimate to 1% this year after 5.1% growth last year, while the Institute of International Finance (IIF) expects a decline in GDP of 2.5%. Yet strong growth is required simply to keep pace with a rapidly growing population and rising inflation.
In response, the World Bank is expected to lend around US$2.2 billion, while Egypt has asked the IMF for help in curbing an estimated US$10 to US$12 billion gap in government funding. Despite fears that the military-led government may be less inclined towards economic liberalisation and privatisation than the former regime, the new loan deals can be expected to enforce a resumption of economic reforms, which had been gradually started under the previous regime. With an average of 20% of Egyptians living in poverty (and up to 70% in some rural areas), however, any austerity measures and some economic freedoms such as removing subsidies may prove as inflammatory for a new government as the current sectarian violence.
There are also continuing fears that Islamist movements such as the Muslim Brotherhood, or more extreme Salafists, may take advantage of unpopular economic policies to gain traction in the newly open political scene. Religious groups, particularly the Muslim Brotherhood, were largely left behind by the pace of the anti-Mubarak demonstrations, initially led by a loose coalition of bloggers, youth activists and opposition party supporters. However, given its superior organisation, combined with its reputation for social welfare, the Brotherhood may become an attractive option for those increasingly disillusioned with the slow rate of change—even though the majority of Egyptians do not agree with the group’s ideology.
Representative government may perhaps repress the endemic corruption that was one of the themes of anti-government demonstrations. However, as demonstrated elsewhere—most notably in Lebanon and Iraq—democracy does not directly translate into prosperity and stability: indeed, politics often hampers economic freedoms and trade, the removal of regulations and the withdrawal of subsidies to favoured sectors—all the things that allow people to prosper. In fact, many Arab Spring protestors demanded more subsidies and more jobs from government.
If a future elected government of this massively influential Arab nation does not grasp the economic nettle, Egypt’s underlying weakness will continue to fuel instability and inter-communal conflict: failure will resound throughout the Arab world.
posted
So do you wish that, in the light of the financial and social difficulties which followed 'reunification' in the early 1990s, East Germany had remained independent of West Germany, or were the few years of pain worth it?
"As might have been expected, the economy of eastern Germany went into a deep and precipitous slump immediately after unification. Within a year after unification, the number of unemployed rose above 3 million. Industrial production in eastern Germany fell to less than half the previous rate, and the total regional product fell precipitously through 1991. One estimate was that in 1991 the entire production of eastern Germany amounted to less than 8 percent of that of western Germany."
Posts: 5593 | From: Egypt | Registered: Dec 2005
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Oh wow..... I don't think Egyptian morning news can get any better than that.
Ayisha, Shanta and others - you might wanna consider to look for a new retirement home OUTSIDE of Egypt. You as foreign expats had a great life under Mubarak's regime.
Remember all the trouble starting on Jan 25.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Shanta Gdeeda: So do you wish that, in the light of the financial and social difficulties which followed 'reunification' in the early 1990s, East Germany had remained independent of West Germany, or were the few years of pain worth it?
"As might have been expected, the economy of eastern Germany went into a deep and precipitous slump immediately after unification. Within a year after unification, the number of unemployed rose above 3 million. Industrial production in eastern Germany fell to less than half the previous rate, and the total regional product fell precipitously through 1991. One estimate was that in 1991 the entire production of eastern Germany amounted to less than 8 percent of that of western Germany."
Okay let me tell you something, as a German, as someone who witnessed reunification and the years that followed IN PERSON.
Yeah we had a huge rate of unemployment due to the fact that our economy crushed once GDR was history but
- We were well studied, many professionals
- Good living standards, never poor (only the first years after WWII ended but so was whole Germany) infact I remember we sent aid packages off to other socialist countries during my schooltime in the 80's
- We did not march and asked for outrageous demands and worked as much as we were able to
- We had no sectarian violence whatsorever (we were one) and most of all no religious nuts around.
Btw, Shanta, I have no idea where you get the 'social difficulties' from. Please can you be more specific?
Now look at Egypt:
- Non-stopping strikes and call for silly demands (silly as you won't be able to fix the whole country in four months until elections will take place)
- Illiteracy is still very rampant
- Religion is very deep rooted and many religious crazies are around
- High rate of poverty.
It doesn't look good for Egypt, not at all. It's gonna be a painful wake-up for many at some point.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: - Good living standards, never poor (only the first years after WWII ended but so was whole Germany) infact I remember we sent aid packages off to other socialist countries during my schooltime in the 80's
And I remember we sent aid packages off to East Germany.
Posts: 3587 | Registered: Mar 2006
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: - Good living standards, never poor (only the first years after WWII ended but so was whole Germany) infact I remember we sent aid packages off to other socialist countries during my schooltime in the 80's
And I remember we sent aid packages off to East Germany.
Oh you mean boxes with sweets, clothes, pens, coffee etc. in them you've sent to your extended family in East Germany? And you would hide some Deutsche Mark in there in the hope that East German authorities wouldn't find it? Yeah we've got them too from my grandma but I would hardly define them as 'aid packages'.
Your above claim is absolutely false. West and East Germany were on Cold War terms. And anyway you don't come around as someone who would care.
Well then how is life at the German University? Keep tight on that job... you might lose it soon. You never know what's going to happen with Egypt. Grrrrr!!!! Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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- Non-stopping strikes and call for silly demands (silly as you won't be able to fix the whole country in four months until elections will take place)
- Illiteracy is still very rampant
- Religion is very deep rooted and many religious crazies are around
- High rate of poverty.
It doesn't look good for Egypt, not at all. It's gonna be a painful wake-up for many at some point. [/QB][/QUOTE]
Actually people dont have silly demands,its each to their own. All of the above things you have stated have been here for many years, and have not just appeared "Now look at Egypt:" Its just that we are getting a better view of things now media etc is not censored. Dont knock something which people have fought very hard for. The chance to make changes will happen.... not over night, but it will come. We look to the younger generations, to step up to the mark and take egypt forward and I am sure they will. Lots of dicussions here in Cairo to improve and make changes for the better. The media push the Mubarak situation, prosecution etc.. Everyone needs to forget about that and concentrate on building a future and beleive it or not...it is happening
Posts: 129 | From: In the land of plenty | Registered: Mar 2008
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Change takes time and I hope that the people of Egypt meet their demands, no matter how menial or 'silly' they appear to foreigners, to them their demands are REAL and much needed. And change will happen. Simple.
Let's hope that tomorrow is peaceful. I have already been warned that schools and KGs may not be oipen on Sunday!!! Some people are fearing the worst Posts: 11097 | From: Cairo | Registered: May 2008
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posted
It's just 4 months - 17 weeks - since the revolution started.
If you had got preganant on that day,
Your baby is now nearly 11cm long from crown to rump and weighs about 140g. His skeleton is mostly rubbery cartilage, but will start to harden as the weeks go by.
quote:Originally posted by Shanta Gdeeda: It's just 4 months - 17 weeks - since the revolution started.
If you had got preganant on that day,
Your baby is now nearly 11cm long from crown to rump and weighs about 140g. His skeleton is mostly rubbery cartilage, but will start to harden as the weeks go by.
Your above claim is absolutely false. West and East Germany were on Cold War terms. And anyway you don't come around as someone who would care.
Well then how is life at the German University? Keep tight on that job... you might lose it soon. You never know what's going to happen with Egypt. Grrrrr!!!!
Heck Americans were sending those aid packages too. Liberal socialist pro-peace types, they'd gather materials while on tour of the Berlin wall to show solidarity with those under communist rule (socialists are not communists, nor are they friendly to communism).
As a wife of a retired military personal who didn't exactly have the most flattering rank leaving the force; you need to be more worried about your own affairs.
While I don't appreciate over half of what Dalia has to say, she doesn't come across as a person who need to lie and create fairytales about her life as you do.
Undoubtably Germany is going to reestablish some very good ties within the Middle East since their foreign policy has established a more neutral approach.
Plus Dalia was living in Egypt for quite some time off and on before the revolution, she has some particularly fine tuned insights into how she can avoid some unpleasant fascets of life for expats.
Posts: 2280 | Registered: Oct 2009
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Your above claim is absolutely false. West and East Germany were on Cold War terms.
I said we used to send aid packages to East Germany. This is a true fact, not a "false claim".
And I say YOU ARE A LIAR . My mom is 72, born just before WWII and she never heard of aid packages from West to East Germany.
Besides that you did not come to discuss the post-Mubarak situation. You came on here yesterday to have a go at me. Try better next time.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: The media push the Mubarak situation, prosecution etc..
Wrong, its the Jan25 stars who want to have Mubarak hanged and they are pushing and pushing for prosecution instead of finding the right people to vote for in several months which can work successfully on their demands. Right now - as we speak - it's JUST NOT THE RIGHT TIME.
quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: Everyone needs to forget about that and concentrate on building a future and beleive it or not...it is happening
That's what I am saying. But protesting for the sake of protest is not a very good option right now.
Don't you people see the red flags? Muslim Brotherhood, Salafis, Gama'a al-Islamiya they all want to take part in this years elections.
And god forbid this just came up on the news:
After fall of Mubarak, group announces intent to form Nazi party
I am not sure if you all live in denial but there is a big danger of Islamization of Egypt in the air.
Who do think the normal village folks will vote for? MB and even Salafis.
If you want to do something good for your current home country go out and educate people.
Otherwise you will be sitting here in four months when the MB's won overall the parliamentary elections and will say these were fraudulent since it's too hard for you to swallow the truth.
Mubarak knew why he oppressed the MB, the Salafis, Gama'a al-Islamiya members. They all came out of the woodworks now to fight for their very own agendas - and many of them are not pretty ones I am afraid to say and wouldn't be in Egypt's best interest to move positively forward.
And shame on you for saying that all these latest actions of church burnings were done by paid pro-Mubarak supporters. I even had to read on here how people completely believe that Mubarak was involved in the church attack in Alexandria.
Mubarak might have been a dictator, but he was not evil.
What you have now running around on the streets and doing harm to others and Egyptian property these are evil people. They are a big threat to Egyptian society. Too many to catch I am afraid to say. And it's gonna get worse. You watch.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Cheekyferret: Silly demands!!!!???
Wow...
Change takes time and I hope that the people of Egypt meet their demands, no matter how menial or 'silly' they appear to foreigners, to them their demands are REAL and much needed. And change will happen. Simple.
I stated silly and I explained silly in my post so please don't pick out two words to twist what I said. I know some people are slower so I will repeat myself again.
SILLY because it's not the right time. Protesters are demanding too many things which the army can't guarantee. They are mainly there for protection and keeping the country civilized.
As you all know there is an interim goverment working right now, most ministers were appointed just merely two, three months ago. Not enough time to do a job well and even to focus on too many things. The country is experiencing a huge change in all aspects.
Again elections will be hold very soon. Elect the RIGHT people you trust and you share the same ideology to do the job of leading the country and only then push your agendas.
The only thing what is important right now is to get prepared for this very important time. Tell the protesters to get off the streets, stop the strikes at companies, just go to work, don't let the economy go down any further, bring calm and safety back to the country and its people.
Tourists will not come I repeat will not come if the unrest doesn't stop. The uprising damaged Egypt's economy completely; now it's time to rebuild the country. Egyptians have to aim for the same goals. They have to become one otherwise they will only hurt further the entire nation.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
once elections have been held it will be too late to make their demands, they could be in the same position as before. The electees need to know NOW what the people want so they can start campaigning towards that before elections.
Tell the people to get off the streets is the same as bring a babamu type back in and enforce the same regime there was before, they have a voice and they have every right to use it, 25 Jan gave them all that right, it has to carry on now. That is the only thing important right now, that Egypt runs for Egyptians
I repeat tourists are coming even now and it's almost summer, Egypt is on the map and tourists are coming. Without allowing the people to have a voice there will be no rebuilding of this country. They have as much right to protest and strike as you do.
-------------------- If you don't learn from your mistakes, there's no sense making them. Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: The media push the Mubarak situation, prosecution etc..
Wrong, its the Jan25 stars who want to have Mubarak hanged and they are pushing and pushing for prosecution instead of finding the right people to vote for in several months which can work successfully on their demands. Right now - as we speak - it's JUST NOT THE RIGHT TIME.
quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: Everyone needs to forget about that and concentrate on building a future and beleive it or not...it is happening
That's what I am saying. But protesting for the sake of protest is not a very good option right now.
Don't you people see the red flags? Muslim Brotherhood, Salafis, Gama'a al-Islamiya they all want to take part in this years elections.
And god forbid this just came up on the news:
After fall of Mubarak, group announces intent to form Nazi party
I am not sure if you all live in denial but there is a big danger of Islamization of Egypt in the air.
Who do think the normal village folks will vote for? MB and even Salafis.
If you want to do something good for your current home country go out and educate people.
Otherwise you will be sitting here in four months when the MB's won overall the parliamentary elections and will say these were fraudulent since it's too hard for you to swallow the truth.
Mubarak knew why he oppressed the MB, the Salafis, Gama'a al-Islamiya members. They all came out of the woodworks now to fight for their very own agendas - and many of them are not pretty ones I am afraid to say and wouldn't be in Egypt's best interest to move positively forward.
And shame on you for saying that all these latest actions of church burnings were done by paid pro-Mubarak supporters. I even had to read on here how people completely believe that Mubarak was involved in the church attack in Alexandria.
Mubarak might have been a dictator, but he was not evil.
What you have now running around on the streets and doing harm to others and Egyptian property these are evil people. They are a big threat to Egyptian society. Too many to catch I am afraid to say. And it's gonna get worse. You watch.
Everyone has a right to there opinion, as do you.. however dont bother coming on holiday as according to your last statement your bound to be robbed and beaten. Dont get we wrong, crime has risen, its just opportunists, dont tar the country with it all being a den of crime.. your not helping the situation. If you lived here you would have a better understanding of the current situation, and for those "foreigners" who choose to live there expat life here, most of them I know, inclduing Shanta/CF live in mostly egyptian areas and are feeling the situation 1st hand.
Posts: 129 | From: In the land of plenty | Registered: Mar 2008
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quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: once elections have been held it will be too late to make their demands, they could be in the same position as before. The electees need to know NOW what the people want so they can start campaigning towards that before elections.
You are thinking wrong. The protesters can't be actively roaming the streets and demanding loudly stuff what the army can't fulfill but need to sit right now with potential candidates together and create plans TOGETHER. And then they have enough time to 'sell' their candidate(s) to the people so they know who to vote for.
quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: Tell the people to get off the streets is the same as bring a babamu type back in and enforce the same regime there was before, they have a voice and they have every right to use it, 25 Jan gave them all that right, it has to carry on now. That is the only thing important right now, that Egypt runs for Egyptians.
Honestly, Ayisha, I think it's good to be outside to get a different view of the whole situation. I will repeat again: Let calm and stability come back to Egypt and move away from the streets. Don't make matters worse.
quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: I repeat tourists are coming even now and it's almost summer, Egypt is on the map and tourists are coming. Without allowing the people to have a voice there will be no rebuilding of this country. They have as much right to protest and strike as you do.
People are not coming back, not as they used to.
Here is the proof:
Cairo - The number of tourists visiting Egypt slumped 46% in the first quarter when mass protests ousted President Hosni Mubarak, the government's statistics agency said on Sunday.
"CAIRO: The price tag for the labor unrest and political protests that have roiled Egypt since the outbreak of the mass demonstrations that ousted President Hosni Mubarak has reached LE 20.5 billion ( $3.5 billion ), the country's finance minister said Thursday. The total was a fresh indication of the bruising taken by the economy since Mubarak's ouster in February. Worker demands for higher wages and ensuing strikes have compounded problems caused by the near-daily protests that continue in the Arab world's most populous nation. Finance Minister Samir Radwan said that LE 13.5 billion ( $2.2 billion ) of the losses were in the tourism sector — an Egyptian mainstay that has been damaged badly since the start of the Jan. 25 Revolution...."
And the ongoing fighting in neighbor country Libya and now that the Rafah border opens permanently will not influence the situation any better.
14 million tourists came last year to Egypt , imagine that, what an impressive number. That's how it used to be. You can discredit Mubarak and his governemnt all you want but you must respect him for bringing tourists into the country.
quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: Without allowing the people to have a voice there will be no rebuilding of this country. They have as much right to protest and strike as you do.
But people had the last four months to voice their demands and opinions. Now it's time to work on it. All that drama on the streets and in the factories won't bring any prosperity for the country; it's only counterproductive. One step at a time I say, the main focus should now be elections.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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Rolling eyes ain't enough, you need to come up with something more than that. I am still interested about the imaginative 'aid packages'.
Perhaps next time you will do better in attacking me (if that's what you wish to do). Better is just stick to a topic.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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And shame on you for saying that all these latest actions of church burnings were done by paid pro-Mubarak supporters. I even had to read on here how people completely believe that Mubarak was involved in the church attack in Alexandria.
You cannot be serious!
quote:Mubarak might have been a dictator, but he was not evil.
2 men meet at Hajj, they chat and one finds the other has a certain position, he says to the guy to remember Allah and do the right thing while in this position.
They arrive back in Egypt from Hajj on the same plane, man in position has other man arrested and locked away for years for saying 'do the right thing'
That is evil. Where is the mercy he is now expecting and what was the crime this man was locked away for for years?
quote:What you have now running around on the streets and doing harm to others and Egyptian property these are evil people. They are a big threat to Egyptian society. Too many to catch I am afraid to say. And it's gonna get worse. You watch.
You really don't seem to get it. Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: Everyone has a right to there opinion, as do you.. however dont bother coming on holiday as according to your last statement your bound to be robbed and beaten. Dont get we wrong, crime has risen, its just opportunists, dont tar the country with it all being a den of crime.. your not helping the situation. If you lived here you would have a better understanding of the current situation, and for those "foreigners" who choose to live there expat life here, most of them I know, inclduing Shanta/CF live in mostly egyptian areas and are feeling the situation 1st hand.
Oh don't worry I will come on vacation ( actually on two right now), who knows how long it is safe there to come after all?
It must be a difficult time right now for Egyptians and expats to live in the country with the ongoing high crime rate caused by the uprising. Seriously if Egyptians don't feel safe why should tourists????
I am concerned that posters on here seem to have their rose-colored glasses on in regards to Egypt's situation.
Really if you don't want to see the red flags that's fine. If you want to live in denial that's fine with me too.
Have a good day.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
Actually, TL, you'll be pleased to know that many people are working on elections. There are party meetings every evening. However, all this activity is not being reported inside or outside the country. Here are some of the websites for your interest: http://www.egysdp.com/ http://www1.eladl.org/pages/home.aspx http://almasreyeenalahrrar.org/ There is a lot of action on the ground, visiting governorates etc. The country is not overcome with demonstrations. Tahrir just gets busy on a Friday!
Posts: 1039 | From: Cairo | Registered: Sep 2002
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quote:Originally posted by Mrs Hassan: Everyone has a right to there opinion, as do you.. however dont bother coming on holiday as according to your last statement your bound to be robbed and beaten. Dont get we wrong, crime has risen, its just opportunists, dont tar the country with it all being a den of crime.. your not helping the situation. If you lived here you would have a better understanding of the current situation, and for those "foreigners" who choose to live there expat life here, most of them I know, inclduing Shanta/CF live in mostly egyptian areas and are feeling the situation 1st hand.
Oh don't worry I will come on vacation ( actually on two right now), who knows how long it is safe there to come after all?
It must be a difficult time right now for Egyptians and expats to live in the country with the ongoing high crime rate caused by the uprising. Seriously if Egyptians don't feel safe why should tourists????
I am concerned that posters on here seem to have their rose-colored glasses on in regards to Egypt's situation.
Really if you don't want to see the red flags that's fine. If you want to live in denial that's fine with me too.
Have a good day.
No rose coloured glasses on but rather eyes that see first hand how it is, and it's not how you seem to think it is. If you are prepared to still come on holiday what makes you think millions of others who know Egypt already wont still come? I don't know anyone who lives here or who is regular visitor that has gone home or canceled their plans, even when the planes were canceled people still found a way to get here.
You are the one living in denial, we are the ones living here by The Nile.
Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: If you are prepared to still come on holiday what makes you think millions of others who know Egypt already wont still come? I don't know anyone who lives here or who is regular visitor that has gone home or canceled their plans, even when the planes were canceled people still found a way to get here.
THIS IS EXACTLY MY POINT, AYISHA. I know what to expect, I am not worried. I lived in Egypt for three years, I still come back and back again on vacation.
You know I had my neighbor asking me two weeks ago when I mentioned I am happy to go off to Egypt soon if I am not concerned?
The same happened to me with two American ladies residing overseas here in Germany. They can't believe I am going - with children. They are actually concerned for my kiddies. I just tried to explain to them that we are going to the Red Sea and it's quiet there.
But that's how normal people view Egypt right now: PROBLEMATIC. And every new news report about sectarian violence and unpeaceful demonstrations on the street just further confirms their opinion.
And you deliberately avoided the links I posted in regards how much Egyptian tourism is down in the loo right now. No prob.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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quote:Originally posted by citizen: Actually, TL, you'll be pleased to know that many people are working on elections. There are party meetings every evening. However, all this activity is not being reported inside or outside the country. Here are some of the websites for your interest: http://www.egysdp.com/ http://www1.eladl.org/pages/home.aspx http://almasreyeenalahrrar.org/ There is a lot of action on the ground, visiting governorates etc. The country is not overcome with demonstrations. Tahrir just gets busy on a Friday!
Well first of all thank you for the links although they are all in Arabic. Can you read Arabic that well - because I can't!!!
Secondly I wonder why all these activity wouldn't be made public at least to the Egyptians. They have the right and need to know what's happening.
IMHO everybody seems to do something - BUT JUST NOT TOGETHER.
Have a great weekend.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
What rose colored glasses ? We're experiencing a day to day situation in a transitional stage towards a true democracy (I hope )
We aren't yet ready to govern and rule in a civilized democratic fashion, that's coz we've been never trained or given the chance throughout something like 60 years, ever since the Nasser regime came to power in 1952, leading Egypt towards what it became nowadays, we reap what we sow.
People revolted because they'd had enough, a populaton of over 80 million is bound to come up with at least a few million (Tahrir youths and likes) who'd ask for an immediate reform..something that's not done by simply pushing a button, meanwhile a few thousands, if not millions (thugs or whatever) are doing a great job minding their business (vandalism), there's always a price to pay if we want a true democracy, as 'some' don't want order to prevail, as simple as that.
TL may come visit while we're in the kitchen, if she wants..tourism has dropped to 17%, due to the mess we're in. Posts: 3219 | From: Wisdom comes with age, but sometimes age comes alone. | Registered: Nov 2005
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quote:Originally posted by Ayisha: If you are prepared to still come on holiday what makes you think millions of others who know Egypt already wont still come? I don't know anyone who lives here or who is regular visitor that has gone home or canceled their plans, even when the planes were canceled people still found a way to get here.
THIS IS EXACTLY MY POINT, AYISHA. I know what to expect, I am not worried. I lived in Egypt for three years, I still come back and back again on vacation.
and so are millions of others.
quote:You know I had my neighbor asking me two weeks ago when I mentioned I am happy to go off to Egypt soon if I am not concerned?
The same happened to me with two American ladies residing overseas here in Germany. They can't believe I am going - with children. They are actually concerned for my kiddies. I just tried to explain to them that we are going to the Red Sea and it's quiet there.
I was asked by security in Birmingham airport if I wasn't concerned about going to Luxor after the Taba bombing, I reminded him there had been 2 bombs in Birmingham and a few in London at around the same time, so it was safer in Luxor than UK at that time. Of course people are concerned when they're getting the hyped up news of a few isolated incidents and not the actual facts of the whole.
quote:But that's how normal people view Egypt right now: PROBLEMATIC. And every new news report about sectarian violence and unpeaceful demonstrations on the street just further confirms their opinion.
see above regarding the news reporting, the hyped media about isolated incidents. This is a huge country, these incidents are not happening over the whole country, it's a shame your 'normal' people don't have the ability to see that and just like my security officer in bomb ridden UK didn't see it was safer in Luxor than in the airport stood next to him in Birmingham. Not all 'normal' people should be reading the Daily Mail.
quote:And you deliberately avoided the links I posted in regards how much Egyptian tourism is down in the loo right now. No prob.
I didn't deliberately avoid anything, although I did post about this not being as bad as made out a few days ago, which I don't think you commented on either.
Posts: 15090 | From: http://www.egyptalk.com/forum/ | Registered: Jul 2004
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posted
Lemme see who shall I believe TigerLilly or people who actually live in Egypt (Dzosser, Dalia, Ayisha, Citizen, Cheeky, Shanta, Mrs. Hassan).
Posts: 2275 | Registered: Dec 2009
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: you need to come up with something more than that. I am still interested about the imaginative 'aid packages'.
I don't need to come up with anything. You want to suggest I'm making things up, be my guest. *shrugs shoulders*
My point was that not everyone sees the situation in East Germany the way you see it. You obviously feel that the living standards were great there, others felt differently, be it in regards to freedom or to things like clothes, food items, or consumer goods.
Your line of logic is that because East Germany was rich enough that people could send aid packages to other socialist countries, the conditions for change were better than they are in Egypt right now. This logic is faulty, and it doesn't hide the fact that you are applying double standards – what's ok for Germany is not ok for Egypt.
Shanta brought up a good point – that bringing about major changes in a society takes time, and that there were many difficulties facing German society after the reunification, just like there are difficulties in Egypt after the revolution.
Posts: 3587 | Registered: Mar 2006
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posted
And just for the record, I was talking to a good friend last night (a supporter of the revolution and not an expat) whose own good friend was heavily involved in Jan 25th and he told me that some of the Jan 25th folk are trying to shut people up 'just for the time being' - he turned round to his friend and told him 'Now you've lost me'. Animal Farmanyone?
It's important that EVERYONE continues to speak NOW before elections, and AFTERWARDS.
In case you forgot, Friday here is the normal weekly day off as is Sunday in the UK and much of Europe. In London on Sundays, people often go down to Hyde Park - Speakers' Corner and listen to people speaking their mind on anything that takes their fancy.
As to the remark that 'Shanta and the others better find somewhere else for their retirement' - this isn't about us. As expats we DO have the option to go elsewhere if we don't like it - though much more difficult for some than others, not so for many Egyptians here. Yes, maybe most of us did have a good life under Mubarak, but many Egyptians didn't.
One of my Egyptian friends was telling me a not-untypical story about her niece and niece's husband who sank their life-savings into opening a new restaurant up in the Delta investing in new equipment, new furniture everything. It became very popular within a few weeks, and so the greedy Governor of that region turned up and started demanding backsheesh. Suffice to say they couldn't pay it and the restaurant was closed, losing them everything.
Unfortunately this kind of thing was normal for many Egyptians trying to be entrepreneurs.
Scientific research carried out which could have been used to better society - farming methods and the like - was shelved because there was no backsheesh in it for those with the power to say yay or nay.
What was the point for many in working hard (though my experience of Egyptians is that they are **extremely** hard-workers even if it is a bit mis-directed sometimes) or making a good job of things if no matter how well you did, unless you knew the right person you wouldn't get credit or reward for it?
Yes, some people did very well under the regime AND BY MERIT and THEIR OWN WORTH, but others did not.
It's a tremendous change in society that has to be made here, and it's like stopping a huge train - can't be done instantly. Ok, apply the brakes, but that train will carry on for a couple of km before it comes to a halt.
Posts: 5593 | From: Egypt | Registered: Dec 2005
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quote:Originally posted by tigerlily_misr: you need to come up with something more than that. I am still interested about the imaginative 'aid packages'.
I don't need to come up with anything. You want to suggest I'm making things up, be my guest. *shrugs shoulders*
My point was that not everyone sees the situation in East Germany the way you see it. You obviously feel that the living standards were great there, others felt differently, be it in regards to freedom or to things like clothes, food items, or consumer goods.
Of course we lived good. We lived much better than millions of German living right now!!!
We all had affordable apartments to live in, clean environment, good food, free education, work for all (unemployment was unheard of), free healthcare, affordable childcare, playgrounds, discos.... believe it or not but people in East Germany were not dead and they knew how to have a good time.
We produced successful scientists, athletes, artists you name it. We had everything expect freedom to travel (only to several countries - socialistic of course and f.e. we sent our workers also off to Egypt) and exotic fruits.... and I do remember my mom did complain about the horrible coffee in East Germany lol.
And really if you didn't open up your mouth and spoke against the current government you were well off - which would fall under the term restricted freedom of speech.
quote:Originally posted by Dalia*: Your line of logic is that because East Germany was rich enough that people could send aid packages to other socialist countries, the conditions for change were better than they are in Egypt right now. This logic is faulty, and it doesn't hide the fact that you are applying double standards – what's ok for Germany is not ok for Egypt.
But East Germany had way more positive factors working for its own progress for change than Egypt does right now!! And I pointed them all out yesterday.
And I am not applying double standards as you claim - I tell how it is.
quote:Originally posted by Dalia*: Shanta brought up a good point – that bringing about major changes in a society takes time,
I think we can all agree about that - I even said so already in February right here on this forum. It's not a new thought.
quote:Originally posted by Dalia*:
and that there were many difficulties facing German society after the reunification, just like there are difficulties in Egypt after the revolution.
Yeah but really can't compare both countries.
But if you want to do - Egypt is way worse off imho. Among other things I pointed out yesterday already it's also the fact that the country is heavily overpopulated. I posted the numbers back in February on here and I can do it again. It doesn't look good. Even the most democratic government will not be able to deal with this dilemma.
But what I am saying it's like you are all closing your blinds, you don't want to hear about it.
And if you want to keep talking about East Germany do so, I don't mind, I am willing to answer all questions you may have - but perhaps on another thread.
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
Naguib Sawiris says Egypt's priorities should be restoring stability and reviving the economy
Ahram Online, Thursday 26 May 2011
Naguib Sawiris, one of Egypt’s leading businessmen and up and coming politicians, has announced that he will not join Friday’s protests which are set to launch the “second revolution of anger.”
Sawiris, head of the newly established “Free Egyptians” party, says that Egypt needs stability now and should focus on increasing the country’s production and preventing the economy from collapsing.
During a meeting at Al Jazeera Sport Club yesterday evening, Sawiris hailed the Egyptian revolution for helping Egyptians regain their freedom and dignity. However, he warned that million man marches like the one planned for Friday will only cause tension between the people and the army. He said the army is the protector of the people and if anything happened to it, it would be a disaster for the country.
Sawiris pointed out that Egyptians should now focus on restoring the factory production cycle and helping revive the tourism industry. He added that Egyptian, Arab and Western investors would not be able to help Egypt’s economy recover as long as the country is unstable.
He also said that it was wrong to accuse all of the country’s businessmen of wrongdoing, adding that many are honourable people who helped create jobs for Egyptians, insisting that the private sector will be vital in reviving Egypt’s ailing economy.
Sawiris also rejected the idea of progressive taxes on those with high incomes, saying the idea may work in the future but at the moment investors need incentives that encourage them to invest in the country.
The businessman also brushed away reports that he may transfer his business overseas, saying he is proud of being Egyptian and would not live in any other country.
He also urged the country’s Copts to participate in the next parliamentary elections, whether they are held in September or postponed. He said elections should indeed be postponed in order to help newly formed political parties prepare for them.
Sawiris added that Egyptians are one people and there are no differences between Muslims and Christians. However, he asked that a law be passed that bans protests in front of houses of worship.
posted
Plans for Friday protest highlight political divides
Disagreements between revolutionary groups over protests planned for Friday reveal division between groups that took part in the recent 18-day uprising.
While some groups say the protests on Friday should be the start of a “second revolution,” others say the protests are unnecessary and refuse to participate....
shadihamid Shadi Hamid #Egypt's liberals seem to be doing alot of 'confronting the military.' Not sure this is the best strategy for winning in September.
cairowire نشرة القاهرة RT @moftasa From several tweets at least 3 different incidents of arrests of activists distributing flyers or pasting posters for #may27.
bloggingegypt Sallie Pisch I'm all for freedom of speech, but on the surface it looks like they were trying to incite the military (not justifying the arrests)
LaurenBohn Lauren E. Bohn Tlking to @ahmadfahmy abt pol mobilization in #Egypt: "There is none. Most revolutionaries complain, tweet, and appear on news channels."
NohaSalah NoOoOos @Zeinobia Many ppl are participating and intending to confront the army..they want it anothe jan 28th!
NohaSalah NoOoOos by Zeinobia @Zeinobia Arrogance of revolutionaries is what will KILL this revolution! #egypt #may27 #jan25 #tahrir
Posts: 30135 | From: The owner of this website killed ES....... | Registered: Feb 2004
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posted
Tigerlily is cherry picking articles and even tweets. Desperately trying to come off as she knows what is going on in Egypt. Fact is she doesn't, she has proved this on numerous occasions with her cut and paste posts. Everyone is entitled to an opinion. But please give me the opinion of Shanta and Ayisha any day and everyday over cherry picking cut and paste posts. At least they don't have to resort to sensationalized cut and paste article, at least they share first hand experience. At least they can share the POV from their end, living in the Cairo and Luxor. At least they can share what their neighbors, friends, etc are feeling.
We can all read the news. A week or so ago I read about a reformist Muslim Brotherhood member advocating Christians converting to Islam and vice versa, as free will (article:http://www.almasryalyoum.com/en/node/439184) We can all cut and paste article to our own cherry picking liking.
I also read in the upcoming elections Muslim Brother are only contesting 45-50% of parliamentary seats. (article: http://www.jpost.com/Headlines/Article.aspx?id=218531) This all but makes it impossible for Islamist to have a majority in parliament. Even with Salafi and other Muslim groups vying for seats.
But you have fear-mongers here, who are probably miserable in their own existence and extending their misery to every channel they know.
Fact > Copy and Paste
Posts: 2275 | Registered: Dec 2009
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@TL - it's not that we're pulling down the blinds on it, but on the one hand you know (as everyone does and no, it wasn't a new thought) that this will take a lot of time and on the other hand you are slamming the whole thing and wishing Mubarak back because it isn't all tidily sorted out in 4 months (with your hero ElBaradi being ridden into power on the backs of the revolutionaries - shame he has to go through elections like anyone else)! Our Polish member was here a few weeks ago and very interesting to compare her views on what she was hearing here about Egypt and what happened in Poland in the aftermath of their revolution following 45 years of dictatorship with parties forming and dissolving rapidly, people all with different opinions about what should happen next.
I do wish people would stop fearmongering too. The other day I spent no less than 4 hours travelling across Cairo from 6th October, Haram, Mdinent Nasr, Heliopolis on a variety of buses and microbuses and, as ever, was met with nothing but helpful kind people (and witnessing helpful kind acts to each other, not just talking about to me now). No looks, no stares, no harassment, nobody mugged me, nobody had burgled my flat when I got home (nor did they the night last week I accidentally left the back door open). Sure, last week I got some looks, but that was because I put my hair in 'viking braids' and was a bit self-conscious about it. Hair back to normal this week and ZERO attention again.
Naturally people have worries and uncertainties, and some work is stopped and it's worrying for those employed eg where big company owners are being investigated for dodgy dealings and others like Vodafone which are using the revolution as an excuse to lay off loads of workers. But electricity is still arriving (and so are the bills!), the phones are still working (well most of the time anyway!), the transport systems are functioning, stocks are getting to the shops so delivery systems are working. Police are out on the streets, and on Monday when I was out, the microbus drivers were all being hauled over on the Ring Road to have their permits etc checked (yes I do know because I was sat in the front of the mbus when we were pulled over), AND they were all (and I noted taxi drivers alongside) obviously worried enough about the police to pull their seatbelts on. school inspectorates are still working, the schools are open (albeit end of school year soon!)
Egypt had a very small crime rate before, and now it's a bit bigger, the problem is people talk in percentages which can give a totally false impression. OK crime might be up 200% but if you had 1 crime now you get 3 crimes - all the ones I have heard about (and I know, I don't get a full picture because of lack of Arabic etc) don't even amount to one busy crime week in London.
Posts: 5593 | From: Egypt | Registered: Dec 2005
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quote:Originally posted by Shanta Gdeeda: @TL - it's not that we're pulling down the blinds on it, but on the one hand you know (as everyone does and no, it wasn't a new thought) that this will take a lot of time and on the other hand you are slamming the whole thing and wishing Mubarak back because it isn't all tidily sorted out in 4 months (with your hero ElBaradi being ridden into power on the backs of the revolutionaries - shame he has to go through elections like anyone else)! Our Polish member was here a few weeks ago and very interesting to compare her views on what she was hearing here about Egypt and what happened in Poland in the aftermath of their revolution following 45 years of dictatorship with parties forming and dissolving rapidly, people all with different opinions about what should happen next.
I do wish people would stop fearmongering too. The other day I spent no less than 4 hours travelling across Cairo from 6th October, Haram, Mdinent Nasr, Heliopolis on a variety of buses and microbuses and, as ever, was met with nothing but helpful kind people (and witnessing helpful kind acts to each other, not just talking about to me now). No looks, no stares, no harassment, nobody mugged me, nobody had burgled my flat when I got home (nor did they the night last week I accidentally left the back door open). Sure, last week I got some looks, but that was because I put my hair in 'viking braids' and was a bit self-conscious about it. Hair back to normal this week and ZERO attention again.
Naturally people have worries and uncertainties, and some work is stopped and it's worrying for those employed eg where big company owners are being investigated for dodgy dealings and others like Vodafone which are using the revolution as an excuse to lay off loads of workers. But electricity is still arriving (and so are the bills!), the phones are still working (well most of the time anyway!), the transport systems are functioning, stocks are getting to the shops so delivery systems are working. Police are out on the streets, and on Monday when I was out, the microbus drivers were all being hauled over on the Ring Road to have their permits etc checked (yes I do know because I was sat in the front of the mbus when we were pulled over), AND they were all (and I noted taxi drivers alongside) obviously worried enough about the police to pull their seatbelts on. school inspectorates are still working, the schools are open (albeit end of school year soon!)
Egypt had a very small crime rate before, and now it's a bit bigger, the problem is people talk in percentages which can give a totally false impression. OK crime might be up 200% but if you had 1 crime now you get 3 crimes - all the ones I have heard about (and I know, I don't get a full picture because of lack of Arabic etc) don't even amount to one busy crime week in London.
Excellent Post!
I would like to bring attention to this trip across town, that this western blondie took:
quote:I do wish people would stop fearmongering too. The other day I spent no less than 4 hours travelling across Cairo from 6th October, Haram, Mdinent Nasr, Heliopolis on a variety of buses and microbuses and, as ever, was met with nothing but helpful kind people (and witnessing helpful kind acts to each other, not just talking about to me now). No looks, no stares, no harassment, nobody mugged me, nobody had burgled my flat when I got home (nor did they the night last week I accidentally left the back door open). Sure, last week I got some looks, but that was because I put my hair in 'viking braids' and was a bit self-conscious about it. Hair back to normal this week and ZERO attention again.
This blondie british lady went from 6th of October (outskirts of Cairo) across all of Cairo in Public Transportation. Not just any public transportation but microbuses, she was hip to hip with all classes of Egyptian society including the poorest.
Just think about that for a second, a western woman traveling across town in public transportation, going to her destination and going back home. That is fact, that is normal.
On the opposite spectrum is Tigerlilly cut and pastes that portray Egypt in a very negative light. Such fear-mongering as Egypt is engulfed with crime, islamist harliners are taking over. This lady does not live in Egypt, hasn't lived there in over a decade, yet thinks she knows about Egypt more than the people who live there. Goes as far as to ridicule them accusing them of having "rose colored glasses", when reality is she is a fear-monger, and her BS is easily debunked.
Take your fear-mongering hatred elsewhere tigerlilly. You have been exposed.
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