Egypt more precious than sight

Ahmed Harara Cairo – Akram Ali "Arabstoday" managed to have a chat with the inspirational Egyptian activist Ahmed Harara who tragically lost both his eyes during demonstrations in the wake of the January 25 Revolution. Harara lost one eye during the 'Friday of Rage' and the other at the Mohammed Mahmoud clashes on November 19. Harara's injuries propelled him as revolutionary icon, as the loss of his first eye did not prevent him from getting out once more in protest, demanding the resignation of the interim Ganzouri-led government and the formation of a national salvation government. Harara, who is a qualified dentist, said: "I arrived at Tahrir Square on November 19 at 3am and joined the frontline with protesters...when the clashes began I was shot in the eye with a rubber bullet at a distance of 7 to 10 metres. Then I fell to the floor and couldn't see anything." "One of my friends brought me to a field hospital on a motorcycle; however they were not able to help me at the time...I was then quickly transferred to the nearest hospital," Harara added. Harara said his eyes "are not as precious as Egypt and defending the freedom of my country." He hopes for stability and freedom for Egypt while all he wanted was dignity for Egyptians.  Until the events at Mohammad Mahmoud Street, Harara said he never identified with any political bloc but he recently joined the People's Socialist Coalition Party which opposes the ruling military council. When asked about the medical treatment required for his eyes, he said: "I travelled to Switzerland to undergo surgery, but I was unlucky and it failed. I do not regret losing them, the most important thing is that Egypt transcends this critical step." Harara said his people suffered injustice for decades. "Protesters will not back down from demonstrations until the judiciary, press and health institutions are purged and held accountable for corruption," he said. The political activist concluded that media gave him more than he deserved and that there were many other victims who deserved the spotlight. "Arabstoday" promised Harara it would try to fulfil what he asked for.