Hope from Egypt 

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) Cairo has sent out a twinkle of hope. The pledge on the part of the ruling military council that real power would be handed over to the civilian dispensation after the presidential elections next month is most welcome.

The Egyptians eagerly looked forward to hearing this, as they were struggling to realise their Tahrir Square uprising dreams come true. The new episode of violence that killed more than 25 people in the capital had come at a time when all the political parties were on the edge. With the election commission authorities having disqualified almost all of the major contenders for power in the presidential race, many thought it to be an exercise on the whims and wishes of the army to further entrench itself in power. However, the issue seems to be resolving with political forces wisely settling down for a second option of their own. Even now it remains to be seen how peacefully, fairly and transparently the vote is held, and the verdict is embraced by the electorate.

Any attempt on behalf of the military junta to indulge in cherry picking would be disastrous. The ruling council has to keep in mind that the trial of former president Hosni Mubarak and his henchmen for allegedly being part of mayhem on the eve of uprising is nearing a decision, and public anger would be at its untamable limits. Thus, no prick should be picked that should come to influence the poll and its outcome. Egyptians deserve a better deal from the reigning regime.