The trial of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, his two sons Alaa and Gamal, former Interior Minister Habib al-Adly and his top six security chiefs is getting mixed reactions from Egyptian political forces. “The Mubarak trial assures Egypt's independence and the success of the January 25 Revolution,” said Essam el-Erian, a deputy in the Freedom and Justice Party. “Egyptian citizens could not have dreamt of a trial for the Minister of Interior, let alone one for Hosni Mubarak and his sons,” said Erian. Erian added Mubarak trial is a symbol for the rule of law; it is a real test for the Egyptian judiciary, one that will hopefully prove its honesty and independence. The judge held the first session of the trial professionally, and listened to all civil plaintiffs and defense lawyers without complaint or disruption, Erian added. The Mubarak trial is a unique situation that will never occur again, said Abu el-Ella Madi, head of the Al-Wasat Party. His presence in the locked cage in the courtroom illustrates the dramatic downfall of a once-infallible tyrant, he added. “The Mubarak trial is a message to any Egyptian president that he is not unquestionable or above the law,” said Madi. “The trail also proved the honesty of the ruling military council.” Most of the lawyers' demands will be refused, similar to what happened in the case of late Egyptian President Anwar Sadat, Madi said. Despite conflicting news reports, Mubarak is in good health, said Essam Abdel Maged, member of the Gamaa Islamiya Shura Council. Mubarak's defense attorney Fared Deeb perpetuated the rumors of Mubarak's persistent coma, said Maged. This was the first meeting between Mubarak and his two sons in two months, and Mubarak looked depressed, added Maged.
