That's what Egypt ostensibly was, though the people never fully appreciated it, and allowed it to be ruled by autocrats. Gee, isn't that what we're seeing happening here?
Now, 5 years down the road, they may remember Mubarak with some fondness.
Do you know what “ostensibly” means?
Yah. In a few years, they might be looking back on Mubarak's rule a the good ol' days.