CAIRO: Egypt is still set to hold parliamentary elections according to schedule, despite heightened tensions in Egypt following a military attack on a Coptic Christian demonstration last Sunday that left 25 dead and hundreds injured. Some have expressed fears that the incident and its aftermath could further obstruct the long-delayed election process. Egypt's interim ruling military government, the Supreme Council of Armed Forces (SCAF) has faced unprecedented criticism for their rule, as groups increase their calls for a swift transition to civilian rule. Sunday's violence was a major blow to the SCAF's authority and popular support. The Egyptian Cabinet announced that elections would be held according to schedule in a statement following the violent conflict. According to the statement, the Cabinet said it would “not let any group manipulate the issue of national unity in Egypt or delay the process of democratic transformation.” They are prepared to open up nominations for election candidates soon. The international community has sounded several calls to reaffirm the need for timely elections. In a press statement condemning the recent violence, the Unites States government called upon Egypt to exercise restraint and hold elections as scheduled, despite the recent violence. “These tragic events should not stand in the way of timely elections and a continued transition to democracy that is peaceful, just and inclusive,” said White House spokesman Jay Carney in a statement. European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton commented on the need to hold elections as well, “with a desire to see all people part of those elections and to protect the people, whoever they are, wherever they come from, whatever belief and faith they have.” United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon reiterated the call in a statement made during a recent UN visit to Norway. The parliamentary elections are the first elections since the fall of the regime of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak last February. Parliamentary elections are scheduled to begin on November 28, and will take place in several phases, with upper house elections ending on March 24, 2012. The new Parliament will adjourn on March 17, 2012. There is still no established timeline for presidential elections. BM
