Is Egypt ready for real change?

Egyptian protesters gather for a demonstration at Tahrir Square in Cairo on the sixth day of angry revolt [AFP]

An embattled Hosni Mubarak has just appointed a new right-hand man and a new prime minister. But many of his fiercest critics say that the country needs real reforms and not just cosmetic changes to the ruling elite.

Western powers have been urging the government to respect the human rights of peaceful demonstrators and re-establish civilian communications networks.

With the Egyptian military ambivalent about its next move, there is anxiety all around.

Will a new vice president and cabinet bring about true change in Egypt?