Egypt security forces clash with Cairo protesters

Anti-Muslim Brotherhood demonstrators take to the streets, calling for end to Morsi’s term as president

18 May 2013, 12:39 am 1

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Egyptian activists hold applications for "Tamarod", Arabic for "rebel", a campaign calling for the ouster of Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi and for early presidential elections, during a protest in Tahrir Square, in Cairo, Egypt, Friday, May 17, 2013. (photo credit: AP/Hassan Ammar)

CAIRO (AP) — Egyptian security forces have fired tear gas at protesters hurling firebombs at them in central Cairo, hours after hundreds of opponents of Egypt’s President Mohammed Morsi rallied peacefully in the streets denouncing his rule and demanding early presidential elections.

The Friday protests witnessed low turnout but come on the heels of a campaign dubbed “Rebel,” which aims at collecting 15 million signatures on a petition to oust Morsi and hold early elections. Coordinators said they have collected 2 million signatures.

The demonstrators earlier marched through Cairo before converging on Tahrir Square, chanting: “Down with the rule of the Guide,” in reference to the leader of Morsi’s Muslim Brotherhood.

Morsi’s opponents say he only serves the interest of the Brotherhood. The group says it has won legitimacy through the ballot box.