Egyptian president reshuffles army top brass

Egypt’s president has replaced the country’s head of the armed forces and defence minister, Hussein Tantawi, with immediate effect.

Mohamed Mursi, from the Islamist Muslim Brotherhood also ordered chief of staff Sami Enan to retire. They will become presidential advisers. Two generals have been appointed in their place.

A senior general said the decision was taken after consultation with the army council.

Tantawi served the ousted leader Hosni Mubarak for 20 years, and ran the country immediately after he was toppled from power.

Mursi also cancelled a constitutional declaration issued by the army shortly before his election that aimed to limit his powers as president.

The re-shuffle of top military brass came as the Egyptian army continued a push against militants in northern Sinai.

Troops flooded the region after suspected jihadists attacked and killed sixteen border guards.

Police said the latest action killed six more militants and recovered weapons including mortars and rocket-launchers.

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