Thousands gather in Tahrir Square ahead of pro-reform protests

Thousands of people are gathering at Tahrir Square in Cairo ahead of a mass protest called by some of the pro-reform groups behind the revolution which pushed President Mubarak from power in February.

The groups, including the Muslim Brotherhood, are calling for one million people to gather at the square, the focal point of this year’s revolution, and demand quicker reform from the interim military government.

Protesters are calling for an end to the military trials of civilians and quicker proceedings against security forces involved in the hundreds of civilians deaths as Mubarak attempted to cling to power throughout the uprising. 

Frustrated with the slow pace of post-Mubarak reforms, some Egyptians are beginning to soften their stance on the former president's years in power. Reuters reports that hundreds gathered in a wealthy Cairo suburb in his support Friday.

Some said they worry that their tourism-related livelihoods are at stake because of the continuing protests and demonstrations.

Security will be close by, but not on, the square throughout the rally Friday. Sources told AFP that police and soldiers would be stationed along the nearby side streets rather than on Tahrir Square itself.

The government has called on all those taking part to maintain a peaceful protest.. 

More Global Post coverage on Egypt: Cairo's Tahrir Square: Five months later