Egypt and Libya hope for a positive year ahead

Hundreds of Egyptians gathered at the iconic Tahrir Square in the center of the Egyptian capital of Cairo on Saturday night to commemorate the lives lost during the successful revolt against former president Hosni Mubarak.

The crowd sang patriotic songs and waved national flags, as they paid respects to the deceased by holding a candlelight vigil.

As soon as the ouster of Mubarak took place, the military council dominated the country, which led to months of protests and violent clashes.

However, some celebrants remained optimistic and hope that 2012 will be a better year than its predecessor.

A third round of parliamentary elections is scheduled to take place early this month.

In related news, residents of Libya are also optimistic about the new year.

One resident said despite no pivotal changes having taken place yet, they experienced a sense of freedom in 2011, because rebels helped put an end to leader Muammar Qaddafi’s 42-year domination of the country.

Many people lost their lives in the battle against the former leader, and photos of the deceased were posted in Martyr’s Memorial in the country’s capital, Tripoli, for New Year’s celebrations.

Another resident said that Libyans are proud of those who sacrificed their lives.

The path to restoring Libya is slow, but citizens are hoping for a positive future for their country.