February 4, 2011

The protests in Tahrir Square are clear, Egyptians do not want Hosni Mubarak in power any longer. He has been in office for nearly 30 years after declaring an emergency. He used that as a pretext to remain its president for that time. That must change and constitutional order must be imposed.

That means Mubarak and his government must leave... now! Preferably out of Egypt.

Mubarak proves he is incompetent with handling democracy and meeting the needs of Egyptians. His reactions to the demonstrations in Cairo were appalling and wrong. He sent his thugs out to do violence and intimidate citizens, he squashed dissent by cutting Internet and cellular communications and he allowed attacks on reporters to go forward all the while claiming he didn't do it.

After Mubarak is gone there must be fair and free elections so Egyptians can build confidence in their government. In the mean time, an interim government can be created to keep things running.

Finally, Mubarak's thugs must be held accountable for their actions. No exceptions or excuses. This too will help Egyptians see the new government as serious about change.

For Mubarak to remain will mean more violence, protests, deaths and disorder. This is unacceptable in a civilized world.