Violent clashes continue in Egypt

EGYPTIAN soldiers and police set fire to protest tents in Cairo’s Tahrir Square and fired tear gas and rubber bullets yesterday to drive out thousands demanding that the military rulers quickly transfer power to a civilian government.

At least seven protesters were killed and hundreds were injured. It was the second day of clashes marking a sharp escalation of tensions before the first elections since the longtime leader Hosni Mubarak was ousted in February.

The military took over the country, promising a swift transition to civilian rule. But the pro-democracy protesters who led the uprising have grown increasingly angry with the ruling generals, and suspect they are trying to cling to power even after an elected parliament is seated and a new president is voted in.