In a gripping development, Saudi authorities find themselves at a crossroads concerning the fate of Egyptian citizen Ahmed Kamel, who is embroiled in a web of alleged extradition. Detained in Jeddah since November 13, 2024, Kamel faces potential return to Egypt, where he risks brutal treatment following a life sentence handed down in absentia for his peaceful activism in 2014.
Human Rights Watch urges immediate action from Saudi Arabia, calling for Kamel’s release and highlighting the perilous conditions within the Egyptian justice system. Joey Shea, a Saudi researcher at the organisation, insists the Kingdom must prioritise human rights over political pressures, stating, “Saudi Arabia should immediately release Ahmed Kamel and refuse to extradite him to Egypt.”
As of January 22, 2025, Kamel has been moved to an immigration detention facility, raising fears of imminent deportation. Despite claims from Saudi authorities about an Interpol request, Interpol denies having any record against Kamel. His family stresses their relentless quest for clarity, revealing that requests for legal details have been met with silence.
Kamel’s past is marked by activism that led to torture and unlawful detention, making his return to Egypt particularly ominous. A life sentence imposed by an Egyptian court for charges such as “incitement to demonstrate” further exacerbates his plight. Prior detentions and psychological pressures have deepened concerns about his survival should he be forcibly returned.
Highlighting the broader context, Saudi Arabia’s treatment of dissenters echoes the oppressive tactics employed in Egypt, with documented cases of violations including unfair trials and allegations of torture, casting shadows on Kamel’s potential fate. Should his extradition proceed, it raises serious questions of compliance with international human rights obligations, notably the Convention Against Torture.
In this dire situation, advocates implore the Saudi government to uphold their commitment to human rights, reinforcing that the world is watching. The call to action is crystal clear: stop Kamel’s extradition and affirm a commitment to justice and dignity for all.
Saudi authorities have detained Egyptian Ahmed Kamel, who risks extradition to Egypt, where he could face torture and unlawful detention. Human Rights Watch urges his release, pointing out the dire human rights violations prevalent in Egypt’s justice system. Despite claims of a request for extradition, Interpol states no charges exist against Kamel. Advocates stress the need for Saudi Arabia to respect human rights in this crucial situation.
As the situation for Ahmed Kamel unfolds, the spotlight increasingly shines on Saudi Arabia’s obligation to protect human rights. With significant risks posed by a potential extradition to Egypt, there are urgent calls for Kamel’s release to prevent an onslaught of injustice. As conditions worsen for dissidents in both nations, the path of resistance becomes ever more critical.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
