a close associate for years. But Mubarak still called himself president. Minutes later Suleiman spoke on television, confirming that he would oversee a transition, and stressed that Mubarak is acting in the interests of the nation . In Tahrir Square , the reaction was utter disappointment. Unidentified Woman: We were hoping he was going to step down because, like, everyone -- it's obvious, like, that's the only thing that's going to, you know, defuse this bomb. ENGEL: Mubarak seemed to be looking for a middle ground, transferring authority but remaining president. Egypt seems to be trying to turn President Mubarak into a symbol, a symbolic leader, a grandfather of the nation . But to the protesters, it's clearly not enough. WILLIAMS: Ominous words from that young woman, the only thing that's going to defuse this bomb. What an unbelievable day there in Cairo , Richard . We'll come back to your reporting later Egyptians set off fireworks as they celebrate in Cairo's Tahrir Square after President Mubarak resigned and handed power to the military. (Khalil Hamra / AP) Share Back to slideshow navigation President Barack Obama makes a statement on the resignation of Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak in the Grand Foyer at the White House in Washington D.C. (Carolyn Kaster / AP) Share Back to slideshow navigation Egyptians celebrate in Tahrir Square after President Hosni Mubarak resigned and handed power to the military on Friday. Egypt exploded with joy, tears, and relief after pro-democracy protesters brought down President Hosni Mubarak