The Ministry of the Interior announced on Thursday that the police would begin dispersing the sit-ins in Nahda Square and Rabaa Al-Adaweya mosque, which began over a month ago. The statement follows the interim cabinet’s instructions on Wednesday to the security apparatus to “bring an end” to the sit-ins, stating that they are a “threat to national security”. The move by the interior ministry comes amid mounting condemnations by the international community and human rights’ groups, who have warned against further bloodshed.
1. In a televised address, the Ministry of Interior announced that it will take all necessary steps to disperse sit-ins at Rabaa al-Adaweya and at El-Nahda Square. The spokesperson added that the move was to ensure the protection of Egyptian citizens and was for the greater good of the nation. The police spokesperson added that the Ministry of Interior will guarantee a safe-exit to those that choose to leave the demonstration, adding that all necessary protection would be provided. Security sources have stated that the dispersal is expected within the coming days. However, with a new ‘million-man’ protest planned by the “Anti-Coup Alliance” on Friday, that dispersal may come sooner. 2. The 6 April youth movement rejected the Cabinet’s decision to disperse pro-Morsi sit-ins, stating that “violently dispersing sit-ins is not the solution.” The movement added that it rejected “the collective punishment against pro-Morsi demonstrators.” However, the movement also criticized the Muslim Brotherhood, saying “you have failed and you were going to throw the country into the abyss. Now you send your supporters to lost battles so as to achieve your personal interests, regardless of the interests of the country. Stop shedding blood and leave.” 3. The Tamarod (Rebellion) Campaign met with the German Foreign Minister and criticized Germany’s stance on recent Egyptian events. Tamarod compared Morsi to Hitler, stating “Why did you reject Hitler in Germany but want him back in Egypt?” [In apparent reference to Hitler being ‘elected’ – though this is technically and historically inaccurate]. The German Foreign Minister is in Egypt for talks with political figures. The government earlier rejected his request to meet with Morsi, stating that ‘foreign representatives have already met with Morsi, and that he is not an attraction and is now being charged with criminal activity.’ 4. In response to an impending dispersal of pro-Morsi supporters, the Muslim Brotherhood warned of a massacre, stating “This upcoming massacre is clear now. It is targeting millions of protesters against the military coup.” The Muslim Brotherhood stressed that there are no weapons at the sit-ins, and that “it is only a lie to justify their dispersal by force which will result in hundreds of victims.”