We'll vote but we won't leave Tahrir, vow Egypt protesters

Turnout was high in today's elections in Egypt despite continuing protests.

The majority of the tens of the thousands of protesters in Cairo's Tahrir Square are said to be casting their votes despite their demands for the poll to be delayed over rigging fears.

Voting began at dawn in Egypt's first parliamentary election since February's removal of long-standing authoritarian leader Hosni Mubarak.

One protester, Mervat El Nahas, told the Standard it is about "making the best out of a bad situation". She said: "I just voted. I am not happy about it, but what else can you do? We have to move forward and participate in the creation of a democratic process but we will not leave Tahrir until the army leave."

Many people fear a dangerous mixture of religion and politics if the Muslim Brotherhood triumphs.
Ms El Nahas added: "The majority of Egyptians do not want the army in control or the Muslim Brotherhood. Protesters in the square are urging each other to cast their votes but many of the core activists are refusing to vote out of principle."