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Surrender or Tactical Withdrawal ?

In a previous post, it seems like I may have over-estimated Hosni Mubarak’s chances of surviving nearly 3 weeks of protests in Egypt.

He has withdrawn to the peace, and presumably safety, of his weekend retreat at the resort of Sharm El Sheikh.

Liberal commentators and many politicians all over the world are trumpeting the success of  “people power” in bringing down a harsh dictator. I hope they are right, but I believe their enthusiasm for the triumph of mob rule – well founded as it may be – could be premature.

All that has happened so far is that the people of Egypt have exchanged a dictator for an army council, almost a military coup, fortunately bloodless. Sure there are promises of September elections and a transfer of power to a government elected fairly and openly at those anticipated  elections. Lets hope that the promises are kept.

But a lot can happen in 7 months in politics, it  is  going to be interesting to see how the next chapters in the Egyptian story unfold.

An interesting reminder for us marketers that nothing stays the same for ever and that sometimes we need to change tactics rapidly in the face of unfolding events. It’s also a reminder that sometimes a change of tactics can allow us to survive what had appeared to be a certain defeat.

Wishing you success in all your endeavours.

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