UPDATE: Hosni's history. He has stepped down from the Presidency and turned power over to the Supreme Council of the Egyptian Armed Forces, who will supervise the transition to democratic reforms. Egyptians are celebrating in the streets.
Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak is reported to have left Cairo for his residence in the Red Sea resort city of Sharm el-Sheik. His speech to the nation last night infuriated the demonstrators who have been calling for his resignation and the implementation of reforms. Hundreds of thousands have been massing in the center of Cairo this morning to continue their protests. This action on Mubarak's part would seem to be an effort to demonstrate his turnover of power, as well as to protect him from the swelling crowds, although the Egyptian Army seems to be supporting the "transition" announced by Mubarak last night.
Vice President Omar Suleiman, who was appointed by Mubarak, is no more trusted by the demonstrators than his mentor, and certainly won't be accepted as the de facto President. Keep those plane engines warm for Omar.
(photo: Ben Curtis, AP)
