Hours before the million man demonstration in Tahrir Square this Friday, dubbed, “Protest for the Love of Egypt,” Egypt's Council of Ministers, headed by Prime Minister Essam Sharaf, issued a statement underlining Egyptians' legitimate right to protest – so long as it remains within the limits of the law. The statement appears to be a call to all citizens to demonstrate for an increase in production and to engage in democratic debate. Political parties must protest lawfully and not discriminate based on religion, class, sectarian differences, geographic location or gender in its program of demonstration, the statement read. “The Council will monitor the commitment of political parties to such conditions to ensure the safety of political practice in the process of building democracy in Egypt,” the statement continued. The statement expressed deep concern regarding divisions arising recently between protestors in Tahrir Square, which the Council believes is contrary to the original spirit of the January 25 Revolution. The Council expressed its commitment to fostering national cohesion between all Egyptians and the creation of a constitution promoting equality for all citizens, based on the foundations of equal citizenship, social justice and respect for human rights. The Council of Ministers also pledged to move forward in achieving the goals of the revolution through the restoration of security and stability and by stimulating the national economy. The statement alluded to the global economic crisis and stressed the importance of Egypt exiting the financial decline by fostering political freedom and democratic institutions. The bulk of the material and legal support promised to the families of revolution martyrs has been provided, the statement said, adding that the Council agreed to honor the martyrs by creating a special committee dedicated to such affairs. Security and stability are now restored in Tahrir Square following the dispersion of the July 8th sit-in, the statement continued. The Council asked that all national forces unite and move forward together to achieve revolution goals. The Council committed to safeguarding houses of worship to ensure that all Egyptians can practice their beliefs without fear.
