Egypt anniversary demonstrators remain in Tahrir Square

Thousands of Egyptians have remained in Cairo's Tahrir Square after a rally marking the anniversary of the uprising which toppled President Hosni Mubarak.

News agencies have reported that some have vowed to stay until another rally planned for Friday; many of the protesters are demanding a speedy handover of power from the interim military authorities. Others are urging patience and celebrating the success of Islamist parties in post-Mubarak elections. The Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) of the Muslim Brotherhood - banned under Mr Mubarak - holds the largest number of seats in the newly elected parliament, although this does not mean it will be invited to form a government. According to the BBC, large rallies were also reported in Suez, several parts of the Nile delta, and in the Sinai Peninsula. Meanwhile, about 3,000 people, who were pardoned by the military rulers coinciding with the anniversary, have walked out of Tora prison located on the outskirts of Cairo. Mr Mubarak, who fled the capital after less than three weeks of protests, has since been put on trial accused of ordering the killing of demonstrators. He denies the charges. Many of the protesters demanded an immediate handover of power. (BBC)