Cairo Street Vendors March for Rights After Violent Eviction
Cairo's street vendors, who rely on Ramses Square for their livelihood, are rallying for their rights. They demand the release of those arrested during a violent evacuation last week and are planning a march to the cabinet building on Sunday.
Ahmed Hassan, leader of the 'Coalition of Cairo's Street Vendors', is spearheading the movement. Vendors are seeking the creation of an association to fight for their rights and are willing to pay for legal registration and proper stalls. They also demand alternative income sources if they are to be evacuated.
Unlike vendors in other areas, those in Ramses Square have faced police disturbances. After the violent evacuation on 26 March, vendors returned to the square, retreating into side streets to avoid expulsion. The coalition is now planning a march starting from Ramses Square to deliver their demands to the cabinet.
Vendors are eager to work with the state, offering to pay for legalizing their positions instead of paying bribes. They hope that their march and demands will lead to a resolution that respects their rights and ensures their livelihood.
