Did The Egyptian Army Just Seal Mubarak's Fate?

Looks like the guys with the guns (and public support) have picked a side and Hosni isn't going to be happy.

The army said on Monday it would not use force against Egyptians staging protests demanding President Hosni Mubarak step down, a statement said.

It said "freedom of expression" was guaranteed to all citizens using peaceful means.

It was the first such explicit confirmation by the army that it would not fire at demonstrators who have taken to the streets of Egypt since last week to try to force Mubarak to quit.

"The presence of the army in the streets is for your sake and to ensure your safety and wellbeing. The armed forces will not resort to use of force against our great people," the army statement said.

"Your armed forces, who are aware of the legitimacy of your demands and are keen to assume their responsibility in protecting the nation and the citizens, affirms that freedom of expression through peaceful means is guaranteed to everybody."

And that folks is that. It's simply a question of when and how but there is no way Mubarak or any of his clique can hang on.

Of course the real question is...who and what comes next?

More: Speaking of what comes next...Slu sends along this story on the Muslim Brotherhood.

They weren't the instigators of the protesters but even though they are an outlawed organization, they are probably the best organized group. When it comes to revolutions, it isn't always those who start them or even gain temporary control who wind up on top when the music stops.

Oh and why is the Army statement so big? Protesters are calling for a million strong march in Cairo. The military saying not only won't they shoot protesters but will protect them is a pretty big green light for people who may have been reluctant to go out and march.

posted by DrewM. at 02:21 PM

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