The sidewalk in front of the People's Assembly witnessed five new demonstrations yesterday as the Egyptian parliament resumed activity following the Easter holiday. A number of MPs joined the protesters and promised to help resolve their disputes. About 100 workers from Nubariya Engineering and Agricultural Automation demanded salaries that they say they haven't been paid in two years. The workers are also asking to obtain control of the company after an investor illegally seized 74 percent of its shares, distributing the remaining shares to his wife and sons. Employees at the Ministry of Agriculture's Land Improvement Authority continued their strike for the tenth day. They are complaining that the government is ignoring their demands for higher salaries and permanent job contracts. The protesters say they have been paid a daily wage of LE3 for more than 15 years. Approximately 200 workers at the Quick Tel Company have threatened to join other strikers if their overdue salaries are not paid and their factory is not made operational again. In addition to the workers, 40 residents from Duweiqa spent the night on the street in front of the People's Assembly, demanding alternative apartments after the government demolished their homes out of a fear of future landslides. According to the residents, government officials promised them new flats which they have not yet received. At least one of the groups on strike received a boost in confidence yesterday. Several physically-disabled demonstrators were openly optimistic after their case was discussed in parliament. They reported receiving promises from the government that their problems would soon be resolved. Translated from the Arabic Edition.
