Thousands of Egyptians rallied yesterday at the Tahrir Square to protest against the attempts of the military junta to prevent any civilian government from being formed.

Protesters are demanding more control over the constitution, which the new parliament is set to draft, and a shift toward civilian rule.

Led by the powerful Muslim Brotherhood and groups of varying political wings, the protests on Friday were meant for demonstrating that the military must transfer power to a civilian government as soon as possible.

The military seized control during the February revolt that toppled the former president Hosni Mubarak. In order to oversee the transition to a democratic rule, they installed the Supreme Council of Armed Forces (Scaf), which is a coterie of generals. The military run government announced the so-called supra-constitutional principles this month, a move that will firmly establish military control over civilian politics, say critics.

Banners at the protest read Down with military rule. Egypt our country is not a military camp. The people want a timetable for the handover of power, reads another large banner.

During the regime of Mubarak, the Brotherhood, though banned, was tolerated. Ever since Mubarak was brought down, there has been a rise in sectarian clashes.

Islamists are expected to win the majority of seats in the parliament. The Brotherhood, through its Freedom and Justice Party, may emerge as the largest bloc in the election.

Parliamentary elections are scheduled to start on Nov. 28 and end in March.

Egypt Elections Egypt Egypt