Israel Matzav

'Palestinian Authority' breaking up anti-Mubarak demonstrations

The 'Palestinian Authority' has been breaking up demonstrations in its territory in support of the Egyptian opposition. Here's video from a demonstration on Saturday in Ramallah.

Let's go to the videotape.



Looks like an awful lot of people, doesn't it?

But not everyone in the 'Palestinian Authority' establishment is opposed to the demonstrations.

While PA security spokesman Adnan Ad-Dmeiri told the Bethlehem-based Ma'an news agency that the PA supported the right of expression, he said that such protests “create chaos.”

One demonstrator told CNN that he came "to stand with the Egyptian people," adding, “It is the right of the people to have democracy and self-determination. We are the same people and from the same region.” [So then why should the 'Palestinians' have a 'right' to 'self-determination' if they are - as he admits - the same people? CiJ]

PLO member Hanan Ashrawi and other Arab officials took part in the Ramallah protest, according to a brief on the Arab News website.

"From Ramallah to Al-Tahrir (Square), the people want change," "bring down the regimes of oppression," they chanted, the report said.

Similar rallies have been held in Bethlehem and eastern Jerusalem since the eruption of demonstrations in Egypt.

The PLO is opposed to the demonstrations for two reasons. First, out of loyalty to Mubarak who has tried to help them reconcile with Hamas. And second, because they know another illegitimate government whose people might want to rise up and overthrow it.

Labels: Egyptian regime change, Palestinian Authority, Palestinian elections, Ramallah

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 3:28 PM