The idea for this cartoon was conceived in 2011 as a response to an illustration concept assignment to design a symbol of solidarity for the Egyptian revolution and Hosni Mubarak's subsequent resignation. The design was revisited and refined in 2013, with Mohamed Morsi in the hot seat. However, unlike the design in 2011, this cartoon illustrates an absence of unity - a deep, seething unrest that initially appeared (at least through the filter of the media) to be a popular consensus supported by military action. It was and still is unclear whose interests are being served.
*The crook and flail, as seen in ancient Egyptian heiroglyphics, are often interpreted as symbols of [divine] authority.