Cairo, March 18: Thousands of Egyptian protesters have staged a new rally in the capital, Cairo, on the eve of a referendum on the military’s plans for the transition of power.
Protesters gathered in Liberation Square after the Friday Prayers to urge pressing ahead with social reforms.
They are asking other voters to reject an amended constitution that will only see slight changes.
Protesters say the hastily-drawn up proposed amendments are not enough to overhaul the Mubarak-era charter.
Demonstrators say they want a new constitution and the transition of power to a civilian government. Egyptians are calling for fundamental changes.
Critics are using social network websites and newspapers to argue that the entire constitution must be scrapped
About 45-million Egyptians are eligible to take part in Saturday’s referendum.
Protesters say they are skeptical about a rapid transition towards democracy and civilian rule and maintain that demonstrations will continue until all their demands are met.
They want the ruling National Democratic Party (NDP) to be dissolved and the surrender of all its assets to the public. They are also demanding the formation of a presidential council, comprising of civilian figures and trusted judges.
Protesters say all political prisoners must be released and an investigation launched into the conduct of officials responsible for the violence used against civilians.
The developments come weeks after Mubarak handed over power to Egypt’s Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, which is headed by Defense Minister Gen. Mohammed Tantawi. Egypt has been ruled by men of military backgrounds since 1952.
The developments come as popular revolutions continue to sweep US-backed autocratic regimes across the Middle East and North Africa.
—-Agencies