A divided Egypt reacts to the ousting of President Mursi

Central Cairo erupted into scenes of celebration following the ousting of President Mursi. Fireworks and flags were in abundance, with cheers and the chanting of pro army slogans from those who had camped out in Tahrir Square since Sunday. “This is the happiest day of my life,” said one anti-Mursi protester. He has left and he is a traitor and I will now forget his name because he didn’t do anything good for me or for the country.” Correspondent Mohammed Shaikhibrahim, in Tahrir Square said: “The military intervention resolved the political dispute, which Egypt had suffered from since Mursi took power. This Intervention has achieved the wishes of the demonstrators here, but the other side read it as a soft military coup which may push the country for the third time in conflict.” Shock and bitter disappointment quickly turned to anger among Mursi supporters as they learned of his removal. Over 50 percent of Egyptians had voted for him and the Muslim Brotherhood one year ago. “The legitimacy is with President Mursi and we will die for his sake. He came via the ballot box, then he must leave via the ballot box, not by force. What then is the use of an election and democracy?” complained one Mursi loyalist. Analysts are saying with the population now deeply divided the next 48 hours could be significant as those who feel betrayed decide how to respond.