In a heartfelt plea, a coalition of 53 prominent figures in human rights, literature, and media has implored Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to grant clemency to Alaa Abdel-Fattah, a writer imprisoned for nearly a decade. As he faces an additional two years of detention, this appeal highlights inconsistencies in Egyptian law that seemingly support his release, considering his lengthy pre-trial detention.
Alaa’s mother, Professor Laila Soueif, a distinguished academic, is currently on her 150th day of a hunger strike. This act of desperation aims to safeguard her son and grandson’s future, yet it has severely compromised her health, leading to hospitalisation. The doctors warn that her continued fasting poses an “immediate risk of sudden death,” compelling further urgency for a response.
The letter emphasises President el-Sisi’s unique position to alleviate the suffering of both mother and son. By granting Alaa a presidential pardon, he could restore a family bond and demonstrate a commitment to humanitarian values amidst regional tensions. This act of compassion could reflect strength in leadership by responding to the concerns of the Egyptian populace and international community alike.
As families join together each evening during Ramadan to share meals, Laila practices a painful fast, wishing to be reunited with her son. They ask the President to remember the importance of family and the impact of clemency, allowing a reunion that would be celebrated far beyond personal boundaries. In this spirit, the coalition respectfully urges for a pardon to prevent further tragedy and foster compassion during this holy month.
The letter was endorsed by a diverse group of writers, activists, and directors from various human rights organisations, united in voicing the urgent need for clemency, showing a commitment to justice in Egypt.
Respectfully,
Aatish Taseer, Ahdaf Soueif, and many others.
A coalition of 53 human rights leaders, writers, and public figures have called on President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to grant clemency to imprisoned writer Alaa Abdel-Fattah. His mother, Professor Laila Soueif, is on a hunger strike for his release, which is posing grave risks to her health. The plea emphasises the urgent need for a presidential pardon to reunite them and highlight Egypt’s commitment to justice, especially during Ramadan, a time of compassion.
This poignant appeal for clemency highlights the dire circumstances surrounding Alaa Abdel-Fattah, marking a significant intersection of human rights and family suffering in Egypt. The united front of influential figures reaffirming the call for justice underscores the international and domestic demand for compassion and the importance of restoring familial bonds. The letter serves as both a reminder of the human cost of political actions and a beacon of hope for future reform. Ultimately, it urges President el-Sisi to act with mercy during Ramadan, allowing a mother to embrace her son once more, turning a moment of tragedy into one of reunion and hope.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
