A determined Dr. Laila Souief, 68, stood resolutely outside Downing Street, despite her frail appearance. For 134 days, she has waged a hunger strike to shed light on her son, Alaa Abdel Fattah, a prominent activist imprisoned in Egypt. Alaa, a dual British and Egyptian citizen, inspires Dr. Souief’s daily protests against the British government’s inaction regarding his unjust incarceration.
Unyieldingly, she voiced her anguish, stating, “Enough is enough, my son’s life should not be ignored. Alaa is a prisoner of conscience – he should never have been forced to spend a single minute behind bars.” Her calls are echoing far and wide, captivating media attention even in the rain, with journalists keen to share her plight.
Human Rights First is closely monitoring Alaa’s situation, having collaborated with numerous NGOs to advocate for his release, asserting that he has been detained since 2014 for activism, facing sentencing for “spreading false news.” The UN has also urged Egypt to cease its crackdown on civil society activists like Alaa.
Despite international outcry, Alaa remains imprisoned, his lengthy absence stark against the backdrop of a nation devoid of free and fair elections, where the military maintains a tight grip on power. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s attempts to intervene include correspondence with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi, yet Dr. Souief’s hopes for a personal audience remain unfulfilled.
Standing steadfastly, she declares her intent to persist in her protest, returning to Downing Street every day, battling the elements in pursuit of her son’s freedom. Her health may wane, but her spirit is fortified by love and a fight against injustice.
Dr. Laila Souief is on a hunger strike at Downing Street for 134 days to protest her son Alaa Abdel Fattah’s imprisonment in Egypt. Alaa, known for his activism, is seen by many as a prisoner of conscience. Despite efforts by the British government, including letters from Prime Minister Starmer, Alaa remains incarcerated. Dr. Souief vows to continue her protests until her son is freed, drawing media attention to their struggle.
Dr. Laila Souief’s hunger strike outside Downing Street highlights the plight of her imprisoned son, Alaa Abdel Fattah, and brings international attention to human rights abuses in Egypt. Despite the British government’s limited actions, Dr. Souief remains committed to fighting for her son’s release, embodying the strength of a mother’s love amid overwhelming adversity. Her unwavering stand reinforces the necessity for global awareness regarding human rights violations.
Original Source: humanrightsfirst.org
