While you were celebrating the 237th anniversary of America’s independence, across the ocean one of the world’s newest democracy was experiencing some growing pains. Scott Long, who lives in Cairo, joined the Buzz to gives us an update on the city’s recent turmoil. Scott is a fellow at the human rights program at Harvard Law School and is currently writing a book on human rights abuses in Egypt.
On Wednesday, the Egyptian military seized control of the capital and suspended the constitution. President Mohammed Morsi was removed from his office. On the 4th of July, Supreme Constitutional Court Chief Justice Adly Mansour was sworn in as Egypt’s interim president, until the date is set for the next presidential election. Egypt is now faced with both pro-Morsi and anti-Morsi protests that fill the streets. The people of Cairo are still concerned whether a militarily placed president can truly lead to a democracy.
Back in Feb 2011-Nov. 2012, there were violent attacks by the military on protesters, attacks on civil society, and huge human rights abuses. Scott believes that, “There is now a more trust in the military from the citizens.” In the eyes of the citizens, the military is back as a defender of democracy.
Listen to the entire interview with sub-host Bob Jacobson: