King Horus Restaurant manager Amr Essr watched a revolution unfold in Egypt. Picture: Stewart Chambers
By Lia Bichel
AN EGYPTIAN man who now calls Casey home said he hoped for a better future for his family and friends overseas.
Thirty-year-old Amr Essr, who manages Egyptian restaurant King Horus at Fountain Gate, went to Egypt for 33 days to visit family and friends and watch a revolution unfold.
Protesters took to Cairo streets last month as a response to a people-power revolt that saw Tunisian dictator Zine el Abidine Ben Alin thrown out of power.
Many media outlets reported that the protests turned ugly with looting, violence and rampage in city streets.
Mr Essr visited Cairo during the protests to search for answers and see the action, but contrary to many reports, he didn’t see much violent behaviour.
“When I went to Cairo most people were well-behaved,” Mr Essr said.
“They were all about 20 years old to 30 years old. Most young people in Egypt are looking for integrity, democracy and better future.”
Mr Essr returned to Melbourne on 11 February where he celebrated the overthrow of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
He enjoyed a feast and said people were “holding national flags, whistling, clapping, singing and laughing”.
“I feel the happiest and very proud to by Egyptian,” he said.
He returned to King Horus on 12 February and was proud to see the restaurant was booked out with fellow Egyptians celebrating.
Mr Essr said he hoped for a new era for the great Egyptian people.
“These great people deserve the best for their country – strong economy, democracy, integrity and a high rank in the global world,” he said.
“My family is happy that everything is changed now and will have a good future. I am quite happy all the turmoil is finished.”
Mr Essr said he may consider moving back to Egypt in the future depending on what changes occur.
