General Mohamed Hosni Mubarak, the namesake of Egypt’s toppled ex-president and his cousin, applied to run for presidency Saturday — the first day of the candidacy registration period, due to end 8 April.

Mubarak revealed his intention to take part in the anticipated elections last month. He also underlined he had supported protesters in Tahrir Square during the 2011 January 25 Revolution.

Should he assume power, Mubarak says he would never follow on the heels of his cousin, who was overthrown on 11 February in the wake of an 18-day revolt and has been detained for months pending trial for illicit profiteering and instigating the killing of peaceful demonstrators.

Deposed president Mubarak’s relations with many of his relatives are understood to have been severed years ago.