El Baradei Returns to Egypt

Posted on Feb 19, 2010

AP / Lionel Cironneau

Former International Atomic Energy Agency chief Mohamed El Baradei at a press conference in Monaco in 2008. El Baradei and his agency were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

With an almost rock-star return, Mohamed El Baradei, former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, has come back home to Cairo, greeted by an estimated 500 supporters. The crowd was so large it prevented him from leaving the airport.

El Baradei, who led the atomic agency for nearly 12 years, is seen to be the most credible challenger for the presidency of Egypt, given his status and untainted reputation. —JCL

The BBC:

Hundreds have gathered outside Cairo’s airport to welcome home Mohammed ElBaradei, the former head of the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Mr ElBaradei has not lived in his homeland for decades but is considering running for the presidency in next year’s election.

Reports say Mr ElBaradei was unable to leave the VIP lounge at Cairo airport after his plane arrived.

Security forces had earlier warned his backers not to gather at the airport.

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