Egyptians have started casting their ballots in the first parliamentary elections since former president Hosni Mubarak was toppled in a popular uprising earlier this year.

Over 50 political parties are contesting the elections, along with thousands of candidates running as independents.

But the preparations have been marred by a new wave of demonstrations, as protesters occupied Cairo's Tahrir Square to demand the military council that replaced Mubarak hand power to a civilian government.

Mike Hanna reports from Cairo on protesters demanding an end to military rule.