Backers and Attackers of President Mursi Clash in Cairo

On Friday (October 12) opponents and supporters of Egyptian President Mohamed Mursi clashed in Cairo, in Tahrir Square. This is the first major incident between the two factions since the Islamist leader took office.

The rivals are vying for a piece of the pie to shape a new Egypt after decades of autocracy.

A new government is in place following the fall of Hosni Mubarak last year, but the country is still divided. Islamists and liberals disagree over the drafting of the new constitution, a necessity for the new parliament to be elected.

Many of the thousands who gathered in Tahrir Square on Friday were also angry at a court ruling this week.  Two former officials accused of charging on protesters were let go without punishment.

Even before the ruling however, Mursi's opponents had called for protests against the recently elected leader. They are upset at what they say is a failure to deliver on promises in his first 100 days in office.

State media quoted the Health Ministry as saying 110 people had sustained light to moderate injuries, but no deaths were reported.