Amnesty International Calls for Release of Detained Social Media Users in Egypt

Amnesty International has called for the release of individuals detained for online calls against President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, emphasizing ongoing repression in Egypt. Over 59 people were arrested on terrorism-related charges for expressing political dissent on social media, following reports of torture and enforced disappearances. The organization highlights the urgent need for the government to respect freedom of expression and address socio-economic issues driving public discontent.

Egyptian authorities are urged to release individuals detained for expressing support for calls to end President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s rule, according to Amnesty International. This crackdown coincided with the anniversary of the 2011 revolution, a period when authorities often increase repression against potential protests. Since December 2024, at least 59 individuals have been arrested for sharing content critical of the government on social media platforms.

The detainees, including several women, were arrested primarily for interacting with social media pages that advocate for political change. Following enforced disappearances and incommunicado detention, detainees were eventually presented before prosecutors between February 8 and 12. Reports indicate that some detainees faced torture, highlighting the severe violation of rights by law enforcement agencies.

Mahmoud Shalaby, an Egypt researcher at Amnesty International, emphasized the need for the Egyptian government to address the underlying issues leading to public unrest rather than suppressing dissent. The government must recognize and respect the right of individuals to express their grievances concerning economic and social hardships, which are critical during this time of significant decline in living standards.

Amnesty International documented specific cases of seven male detainees arrested between December 23, 2024 and January 16, 2025 for their online activities. Detainees reported being interrogated about their social circles and political beliefs, citing economic crisis as a motivator for their posts calling for change. Security forces have charged them with terrorism-related offenses, including “joining a terrorist group” and “spreading false news.”

The conditions of their detention have raised grave concerns, as detainees reported instances of torture, including beatings and electric shocks. Prosecutors, however, have not pursued investigations into these claims of abuse. Shalaby noted that these violations will persist as long as there is complicity from the judicial system in shielding security forces from accountability.

This wave of arrests marks the second incident of violence against individuals expressing calls for government change in six months. In July 2024, approximately 119 people were detained across several governorates for similar actions related to protests against economic challenges. These events serve as a concerning reminder of the state’s intolerance towards political dissent in Egypt, threatening foundational rights to free speech and assembly.

The recent arbitrary detentions in Egypt showcase the government’s ongoing repression against dissenting voices. Individuals charged with terrorism-related allegations for merely expressing their views underscore the broader issue of human rights violations in the country. Amnesty International continues to advocate for the unconditional release of detainees and calls for the government to address the root causes of public discontent instead of resorting to suppression.

Original Source: www.amnesty.org