What paths will Egyptians tread now?

For more background on this from PL vs: look here. Or for a good recap/summation from CNN, here.

I am sure that some of even the most staunch conservatives in this country, those that advocate stability and security over democracy for our world partners, could not help but smile at the inspiring events today in Egypt. It has largely been since the Vietnam War and Civil Rights Protests that we have seen such non-violent demonstrations in our own country for political change, and it is difficult not to find success like what has occurred in Egypt today uplifting.

Hosni Mubarak, greeted by an overwhelming protest movement culminating with great intensity today in several cities across Egypt, has officially resigned his post as President of Egypt, fleeing with his family from the Capital.

The announcement was made by his Vice President, Omar Suleiman, in what has been described as a terse minute-long concession. Power will be handed over to the Egyptian Military (specifically a group of military leaders who make up the Supreme Council of the Armed forces) which has largely refused to take part action against or to protect the protesters.

Last night, Mubarak enraged protesters by appearing on television and refusing to resign, handing over only some of his powers to the Vice President. Some Egyptian leaders had hinted that the speech would signal Mubarak's resignation. When that wasn't what happened, the crowds felt further deceived. Earlier in the week, attention had turned away from Tahrir Square to worker strikes across the nation, but on Friday, new lifeblood had been pumped into the student and young-people driven protests because of the previous night's events.

And now, these demonstrations have turned into cheering, chanting crowds, shooting off fireworks and dancing in the streets. A few hours ago, even now, some streets were so full of people that they were entirely blocked off.


But what will happen to Egypt now? Can we expect things to return to normal? Or will instability spread? The world watches patiently, eagerly, wondering what example Egypt's new leaders will demonstrate. Perhaps the rest of the word's countries will show that they have learned something from this, and dare to illustrate some respectful restraint for a time before inevitably exercising their influence on Egypt's new affairs.


Meanwhile, Egyptian protesters, your tenacity has paid off. May your non-violence and passion be reflected in the policies and personnel of the new government. Now, we can only hope, Egypt is finally free. Let us also hope that America is willing to accept the real consequences of  Democracy in action, regardless of its benefit to our people, companies, or way of life.



Egyptians I raise my glass to you tonight. Your efforts remind us of the achievements humanity is capable of in the face of poverty, violence, and all adversity. Your rage compels us to reexamine our own actions and their many extensive consequences for the world. Your spirit inspires us to work for global change before the human condition pushes any population to such a breaking point. And finally, we wish you all good luck.