Egypt’s military ruler ‘relaxes’ emergency law

EGYPT’S military ruler yesterday partially lifted hated emergency laws, in an apparent attempt to ease criticism ahead of the first anniversary of the popular uprising that toppled president Hosni Mubarak.

Field Marshal Hussein Tantawi said the draconian laws, in force for more than three decades, would be relaxed from today but would remain applicable to crimes committed by “thugs”, a label the army often applies to pro-democracy protesters.

Rights groups claim at least 12,000 civilians have been tried before military tribunals since the army took power. Many of them, they say, were charged with acts of “thuggery”. Young protesters even style themselves “thugs” at demonstrations and use the term to ridicule the military in the independent press. At least 80 protesters have been killed by troops since October.