12 Feb 2012

Egypt marks one year since Mubarak overthrown

7:10 am on 12 February 2012

Egypt has marked the first anniversary of the popular overthrow of Hosni Mubarak with rallies and speeches.

But there was a poor turnout for a general strike called by activists to protest against the slow pace of change from military rule.

About 4000 people rallied in places such as Tahrir Square and the university in Cairo on Saturday, calling for the immediate departure of the military council that replaced President Mubarak, Reuters reports.

However, their call for a general strike was opposed by religious figures and political groups and failed to cause major disruption.

Though hailed as heroes a year ago for helping to unseat Mr Mubarak, the army is increasingly criticised for its management of Egypt.

The generals have pledged to hand power to an elected president by the middle of this year, but protest groups doubt their intentions.