Bono Mack Statement on Transfer of Power in Egypt

Statement

Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (CA-45) released the following statement in response to the announcement that Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has stepped down and handed power to the military.

"For thousands of years, Egypt has been ruled by pharaohs, kings and autocratic regimes, but in less time than it often takes to deliver an overseas package, the use of the Internet and social media has fueled a freedom revolution. This is a great day for the people of Egypt and all those who believe in freedom.

"Yet as we have learned here in the United States, the establishment of a stable, democratic government takes time, patience and compromise. As Americans, we pray for a peaceful transition and a prosperous future for all Egyptians. But we also hope that this rush to reform does not shut out dissident voices and allow extremists to seize power.

"The Egyptian revolution sends a loud, clear signal around the world: no government or international body should have the ability to regulate free speech on the Internet or to pull the plug on it. The Egyptian people have spoken. The world applauds."

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