As Egypt entered its 12th day of protests, key government figures have moved to gradually limit the power of President Hosni.

According to a report of The New York Times, which cites unnamed Egyptian and US officials, Mubarak has descended into isolation with his own government.

After hundreds of thousands rallied demanding Mubarak's resignation in the "Day of Departure" protest on the Tahrir Square in Cairo on Friday, the Obama Administration and some members of the Egyptian military and civilian elite are said to have pursued plans to nudge him from power.

The New York Times, which already reported about talks between the US and Egypt to come up with a plan to retire Mubarak immediately even though he has declared his intention to step down only after he completes his term until the September 2011 elections.

The paper's new report says the country's newly named Vice President, Omar Suleiman, and other top military leaders were discussing steps to limit Mubarak's decision-making authority and possibly remove him from the presidential palace in Cairo - though not to strip him of his presidency immediately. A transitional government headed by Suleiman would then negotiate with opposition figures to amend Egypt's Constitution and begin a process of democratic changes.

US administration officials said that among the political ideas that had been discussed were suggesting to Mubarak that he move to his home at Sharm el Sheik, the seaside resort, or that he embark on one of his annual medical leaves to Germany for an extended checkup. Such steps would provide him with a graceful exit and effectively remove him as the central political player, going partway toward addressing a central demand of protesters on the streets of Cairo.  

The United States has encouraged VP Suleiman and top military officers to have detailed discussions with opposition groups on the transition to democracy and change of the Constitution.

For another night in a row, thousands of people camped out in the Tahrir Square and the protests resumed Saturday morning.

The NYT also points out here was no immediate suggestion of a link between the protests and a huge explosion early on Saturday in a pipeline in northern Sinai carrying natural gas to Israel and Jordan.

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