Egypt

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | April 19th, 2005 | Trackback

A pro-reform movement called Kefaya (Enough) plans to hold 13 simultaneous demonstrations across the country April 27 to demand greater political freedom in advance of elections planned for the fall. Organizers are concerned that the government will use the recent Cairo bombing in which three foreign tourists died as an excuse to crack down on protesters, but they intend to go ahead with their demonstrations. Until recently the government had not been tolerant of political demonstrations, and the possibility exists that authorities may stop them with force.

Home » Africa, Egypt, Demonstrations/Protests

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Egypt

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | April 12th, 2005 | Trackback

A suicide bombing in one of the main alleyways in the famed Khan al-Khalili bazaar, which lies in the heart of old Cairo and is a popular tourist site, killed one American and two French tourists as well as the bomber April 7. The incident was the first attack against foreigners in Cairo in seven years. Police believe the attack was an “isolated incident” carried out by an individual or a small group of conspirators unaffiliated with any larger terrorist group. The bomb was crudely made of gunpowder and nails. Security at tourist sites was increased, but authorities do not expect further incidents.

Home » Terrorist threats, Africa, Egypt

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Egypt

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | April 5th, 2005 | Trackback

Knowing the customs of unfamiliar cultures can help travelers avoid problems. In a recent incident in Cairo, a Hungarian couple was stabbed by a “mentally unstable” man after kissing near a historic mosque in Khan al-Khalili bazaar, a popular place for tourists to shop for souvenirs. Doubtless they were not the first couple to kiss in this neighborhood, but such public shows of affection can be offensive in Islamic cultures. The couple sustained only minor injuries.

On a political note, now that President Hosni Mubarak has opened September’s presidential election to opposition candidates, the country has entered an unfamiliar phase of political uncertainty, with street protests and demonstrations occurring that were unheard of until recently. Authorities have vowed to enforce laws requiring demonstrators to obtain permission before holding rallies, and could crack down to restore order if protestors try to test limits.

Home » Africa, Egypt, Political updates, Cultural news

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