...

Egypt's new government sworn in

Arab World Materials 7 December 2011 19:07 (UTC +04:00)
Egypt's military ruler Hussein Tantawi Wednesday swore in the country's new interim government led by former premier Kamal al-Ganzouri, reported state television, reported dpa.
Egypt's new government sworn in

Egypt's military ruler Hussein Tantawi Wednesday swore in the country's new interim government led by former premier Kamal al-Ganzouri, reported state television, reported dpa.

Twelve members of the previous cabinet have been kept in the new government - including Foreign Minister Mohammed Kamel Amr and Minister of International Cooperation Fayza Abul Nagaa.

The government features 18 newcomers, including ministers of the interior and information. Major General Mohammed Ibrahim was picked for the interior portfolio in a last-minute appointment.

Prior to the swearing-in, the ruling military council issued a decree granting some presidential powers to al-Ganzouri, whose appointment almost two weeks ago was met with protests.

Al-Ganzouri, 78, served as prime minister under former president Hosny Mubarak from 1996 to 1999.

Dozens of his opponents have been camping for 11 days outside the cabinet headquarters near Tahrir Square in central Cairo, saying they will not allow him in.

On Tuesday, al-Ganzouri promised he will never use force to remove the protesters. He also pledged to make security and revitalization of the national economy top priorities for his government.

The protesters regard al-Ganzouri as part of the Mubarak regime deposed in a popular revolt in February.

Tags:
Latest

Latest