Protests have continued in Cairo as thousands demand the resignation of Egypt’s military rulers.

The protesters have rejected a pledge by the ruling military council to speed up the transition to a civilian government.

On 22 November, Field Marshal Mohamed Hussein Tantawi, head of the Supreme Council of Armed Forces, promised presidential elections by the end of June 2012, six months earlier than originally planned. At the same time, the army-appointed civilian cabinet submitted its resignation.

The protests are overshadowing the elections, which are due to take place next week. Some Egyptians want elections to go ahead, while others want the military rulers to resign from power first.

The military council was appointed to temporarily run Egypt, following the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak in February. Protesters fear the military intends to hang on to power.