"Yes to Mubarak, to protect stability," said one of the banners carried by demonstrators gathered near the headquarters of the state television, about one kilometre (0.6 mile) away from Tahrir Square, the epicentre of anti-Mubarak protests that on Wednesday raged into a ninth straight day.
"Yes to the president of peace and stability," and "those who love Egypt would not drown it," said other banners the day after the veteran leader said he would not seek another term as president.
Some protesters expressed their intention to march to Tahrir square to drive the anti-Mubarak demonstrators out.
"Decent people left the square after the speech of President Mubarak," said Gamal Ibrahim, a journalist amongst the crowd."Only the traitors are still there," he added.
A smaller gathering nearby of around 30 Mubarak supporters harassed groups of people heading for Tahrir square.
"What more do you want? In any case Mubarak won`t stay. You must leave or blood will flow," the small, mobile and vociferous demo shouted.
Mubarak said Tuesday that he never intended to run for a sixth term in September presidential elections, but that he would stay until then to "ensure a peaceful transition of power."
His address was met by boos from the thousands gathered at night in Tahrir square despite a curfew.(*)
Editor: Aditia Maruli Radja
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
