Getting to June 30
While there is always the possibility that June 30 and beyond might end up being an underwhelming event compared to expectations, it does not — so far — seem like that is what we’re set to witness. Trying to absorb some of the mounting public discontent, Morsi’s epic two-and-a-half hour speech on June 26 contained — amid some controversial and eccentric content and decisions — a reconciliation initiative that ended being largely seen as too little too late by the opposition and supporters, who appear steadfast on proceeding with their protests. Many on social media and elsewhere have criticized the speech as provocative, arguing that every apparent positive overture within it was neutralized by something threatening or inappropriately confrontational, and that democracy-touting phrases were followed by others that seemed at least somewhat authoritarian.
