Call for unity as flights halted

EGYPT’S military ruler said the country is going through a critical period, and called for national unity to achieve a democratic state under civilian rule yesterday.

Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi said disagreements and mistrust have plagued the period following the uprising that ousted president Hosni Mubarak in February.

Protesters and political groups have widely criticised Mr Tantawi for his reluctance to implement sweeping changes and dismantle elements of the former regime.

Flights in and out of Egypt were severely disrupted yesterday due to a work slowdown by Cairo airport air traffic controllers protesting over bonuses, according to airport officials.

More than 200 flights were delayed, with flight traffic to and from the airport cut by 80 per cent.