Uprising in Cairo - Day 17

Estimates suggest that three million Egyptians descended upon Cairo's Tahrir Square, on Day 17 of the popular uprising. Despite the rain and cold weather, hundreds of thousands came and went through this "liberated territory."

By the afternoon (Thurs. Feb. 10) Egyptians received news that Mubarak would address the people in a public statement. This led to expectations, hopes and rumors of the dictator's resignation throughout Tahrir Square.


Patriot songs and waving-flags filled the air. Food, drinks and cigarettes are sold along stands throughout Tahrir Square. Many in attendance described it as a carnival.


Thousands of demonstrators camped, protested, chanted, chatted and picnicked along the "newly liberated territory" outside parliament- the People's Assembly Street.


Countless thousands of jubilant Egyptians chanted for the downfall of Mubarak and his regime as they waited for the dictator to announce his official resignation. Being the stubborn old man that he is, Mubarak refused to step down; but symbolically delegated presidential powers to his puppet Omar Suleiman.


Protesters were told to get ready for the multi-million man march on Friday (Feb. 11,) while Street artists decorated the governmental Mogamma' building with political and patriotic graffiti.


"Beautiful is my country" reads this political piece of street art.