Sir— The future of the Arab world rests in the balance. On the one side are the people who believe in open discussions supported by independent institutions. On the other are those who believe in absolute rule backed by absolute faith. So long as Egyptians stand up for the principles of the republic, no man may reign with absolute power again. The road to democracy is long and difficult. I wish the brave Egyptians at Tahrir Square all the best. Gale Ashley Washington USA Gaza as cover Sir— Morsi thought that mediating a Gaza flare up would convince the Egyptian people to trust him enough to grant these “temporary” powers. I think the Egyptian people are smart enough to see through all of this and wish them the best for your country. Let's just hope for a resolution that is non-violent. Irene Jayden New York USA If it were Mubarak Sir— Had Mubarak had powers anywhere near as sweeping as what Morsi has just given himself, Mubarak would be still the “old Pharaoh” of Egypt. The Muslim Brotherhood is showing indifference to democratic principles and procedures. Omar Abdel-Hamid Cairo Egypt
