We read that the protesters - again occupying Tahrir Square as in the successful protests at the beginning of the year which ousted Mubarak - want quicker change, but at the same time want to cancel the elections held for Monday, which had supposed to be held in September. It seems that they have no trust in the election procedures, but, more importantly, are concerned about the role of the military after the parliament has been elected. They want an unconditional confirmation from the generals that military rule will end as soon as the deputies are in office.
Where this is disturbing is that it is difficult for a heterogeneous group to portray, en masse, such a complicated thought process. The generals might publicly conclude that the people are not ready to rule themselves: indeed that appears to be the stance adopted at the moment. The USA, Britain and other countries, including the ineffective Arab League, must push for elections to be held in due course with independent verification of their independence.
Where there is cause for hope is that the Army now knows that the people are on their case, and that they will risk bloodshed for democracy.
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