Dictators are often portrayed as Neanderthals staying on in power by brutally terrorising into submission every one they rule over but Mubarak seems to be employing subtle moves to hang on. The regime was initially slow to react probably thinking that a minor show of force by the police and secret service would be enough to silence the protests. When that did not work they shut down internet and all social channels such as Facebook and Twitter. They withdrew all police and allowed criminals to escape from jails. An orgy of looting followed. Banks, private properties, supermarkets were looted. Shopping malls were looted and burnt down. People formed vigilante groups to guard their families and properties creating suspicion of anyone unrecognised. When they reappeared the police were not seen as enemies any more. All offices, banks and most shops have shut down. People cannot receive their salaries or withdraw money from banks and food and fuel are getting scarce. Apart from urging protesters to remain peaceful the army is passively guarding government buildings and tourist attractions such as the museums and the pyramids at Giza. Mubarak has changed his cabinet and appointed a Vice President for the first time is 30 years. Is the regime adopting the rope-a-dope tactics of Muhammed Ali allowing the protesters to shout themselves into exhaustion while scarcity of money and lack of food forces people to call for a time out? The regime can then blame radicals for the problems and offer themselves as saviors. Who knows if this will work but real life is so much more exciting than movies. Just needs patience.