(AFP Photo)
The Ministry of Interior denied plans of re-implementing practices of cracking down on Islamists. The statement came in response to a call for Islamists to protest at the Homeland Security headquarters in NasrCity on Thursday following afternoon prayers.
The ministry said that the calls for demonstrations were based on “unfounded claims.” It went on to say that all parts of the ministry were focused on upholding the rule of law, respect for human rights, and treating all political factions equally. It also claimed its commitment to maintaining the country’s national security.
Some Islamist groups have announced that they will not participate in the protest. Al-Jamaa Al-Islamiya endorsed the freedom of all citizens to demonstrate peacefully, but said it would refrain from doing so on Thursday night at Homeland Security, saying the ministry was being given an opportunity to reform itself and contribute to the freedom of all citizens.
The Al-Nour Party said it would not participate either. However according to state-owned Al-Ahram, some senior leaders in the party, including Ahmed Khalil, will take part in a personal capacity.
Media spokesperson for the Coalition Supporting New Muslims Hossam Abu Al-Bukhary was among those who called for the demonstration, saying in a statement that thousands of Islamists from different forces would take part in the protest. The spokesman said that there was a concerted effort from within the Homeland Security apparatus to maintain loyal to the former regime and the “counterrevolution.”
