Presidential hopeful Mohamed ElBaradei called on Prime Minister Essam Sharaf's interim cabinet to resign during a TV interview Wednesday, saying no good would come from the officials staying in power.
“Egyptians didn’t revolt to suffer security failure and economic deterioration,” he said during an appearance on privately-owned satellite channel Al-Mehwar. “Citizens in slums are desperate as they [haven't seen] any change. Those citizens should be given hope. Their conditions should be improved.”
ElBaradei also called on the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) to hand over power to a civilian government.
“We need you protect the country. Hand over power and return back to that role,” he said.
ElBaradei expressed optimism that the revolution would ultimately be successful despite problems during the transition from military rule to a civilian government.
“Im proud of you. The revolution will succeed, but we should all unite to pass the interim period,” he said, directing his comments to Egyptians.
Observers and critics have said Sharaf's government has limited powers and influence on the SCAF, which has been running the country since President Hosni Mubarak resigned in February. The government does not have the right to issue laws without first getting SCAF approval.
Sharaf defended the SCAF earlier this month following criticism that the military council has managed the transition poorly and made unilateral decisions.
“The armed forces are trying to hand over power to an elected civilian administration,” Sharaf said.
Translated from the Arabic Edition
