Egyptian President Morsi to address nation amid tensions

The protests have been planned to mark the first anniversary of Mr Morsi coming to power on 30 June 2012.

Many Egyptians have reportedly begun stocking up on basic food supplies, fearing unrest.

Army troops have been deployed in the capital, Cairo, Alexandria and other cities around the country.
Correspondents say soldiers have been stationed in areas of Cairo where pro-Morsi protesters are expected to gather following Friday prayers.

Armoured trucks are lining the streets in near Rabaa al-Adawiya Mosque in the city's east, which has become a gathering point for Islamist protesters.

Troops have also been deployed to protect the presidential palace and other public buildings in Cairo.
On Monday, the head of the army warned it would not allow Egypt to slip into "uncontrollable conflict".

Gen Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi said the army was obliged to stop Egypt plunging into a "dark tunnel", in remarks which were seen as one of the strongest interventions since the army handed over power to President Morsi last year.

There has been speculation over whether Mr Morsi will make concessions in the speech or outline a tougher stance.

Tensions in Cairo have been rising ahead of the demonstrations planned for the weekend, with counter-demonstrations by Islamists in support of Mr Morsi planned for the coming days.

There have also been acute shortages of fuel in the city, leading to huge traffic jams as well as long and sometimes bad-tempered queues at petrol stations, adding to the febrile atmosphere.
Some Cairenes have begun stockpiling food in anticipation of street clashes between the two opposing political camps, with staples including canned goods, grains and frozen vegetables much sought after.

Security sources said the area around the presidential palace - the scene of previous clashes - was being closed off ahead of the rallies, in addition to deployments to protect other major public buildings.

Anti-Morsi activists say they have gathered 13 million signatures on a petition calling for the Islamist leader to step down. They want early presidential elections to be called to replace him.
His supporters say any move to unseat him now would be undemocratic.

Mr Morsi's first year in office has been marred by constant political unrest and a sinking economy.
Many analysts say the instability and a continuing threat of violence have frightened away foreign investors and tourists.

There is increasing unemployment, particularly among the young, as well as falling foreign currency reserves.

Labels: Conflict, Egypt, Human Relations, Islamism, Muslim Brotherhood

posted by Pieface @ Wednesday, June 26, 2013