Mubarak transfer of power unclear and unconvincing: Obama

WASHINGTON - Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak’s announcement that he was handing power to his deputy has not convinced the people of Egypt that the government is serious about democratic reforms, US President Barack Obama said.

Obama issued a statement late Thursday after Mubarak went on Egyptian television, saying he was transferring power to Vice President Omar Suleiman but would remain in office despite mass protests demanding his resignation.

“The Egyptian people have been told that there was a transition of authority, but it is not yet clear that this transition is immediate, meaningful or sufficient,” Obama said.

“Too many Egyptians remain unconvinced that the government is serious about a genuine transition to democracy.”

Obama said it’s the responsibility of the Egyptian government to “speak clearly” to the Egyptian people regarding Mubarak’s plans.

“We therefore urge the Egyptian government to move swiftly to explain the changes that have been made, and to spell out in clear and unambiguous language the step-by-step process that will lead to democracy,” he said.