Egypt overthrows president

On 11 February, after 18 days of violent protests, Hosni Mubarak stepped down as president of Egypt, handing over power to the military.

The military’s role is only temporary and they are expected to lead the country until elections are held in September. However, some believe that the military regime is little change from Mubarak’s reign, as many of his old supporters are in control. The head of the Supreme Military Council, Mohammed Hussein Tantawi, has earned the nickname 'Mubarak’s poodle'.

Dr Ewan Stein, from the department of Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Edinburgh, spoke to The Journal on the current situation: "I think the military in general has played a pragmatic role so far, steering a middle course between stability and change.

"Egypt is a country with military service. The rank and file of the military has felt the same grievances as other Egyptians and so has had as much of a stake in the revolution as everyone. But the generals were very much a part of the Mubarak regime and have an interest in preserving many elements of it. So long as they remain in direct control of the country it cannot be said that the regime has changed.”

Many Egyptians are continuing to strike over economic hardships that were a key factor in starting the protest. The military are attempting to persuade them back to work, sparking fears of a potential clash between the remaining protesters and the military.

Dr Stein gave his views on the strikes: "Egyptians across sectors have been striking consistently for the last decade, so it is not surprising that the large-scale protests of the last few weeks have emboldened strikers to press home their demands. Those striking need to know they have a government that is responsive to these demands, so I don't think the interim administration taking a hard line is the answer."