Written by CFJ
Geneva 16 August 2023
On August 14, 2023, the Second Circuit (Terrorism) of the Cairo Criminal Court, during its session held at Badr Prison, reviewed the decision to extend the detention of the lawyer and human rights defender, Qasim Mahrous Abdelkafi, who is accused in case number 930 of 2019, known in the media as the “Hope Alliance.”
Expiry of Pretrial Detention Period:
AbdulKafi has been detained for over 4 years, which means that the pretrial detention period has elapsed according to Egyptian laws. He was arrested by security forces on June 23, 2019, and was forcibly disappeared until his appearance on June 26 in the State Security Prosecution.
Arrest Rotation:
In the same context, during its session on August 12, the same circuit decided to renew the detention of the lawyer and human rights defender, Said Hassan Ali, for a period of 45 days for the purpose of investigations in case number 238 of 2021 (Supreme State Security Prosecution).
It’s worth noting that Ali appeared before the Supreme State Security Prosecution in relation to the current case on July 7, 2021, following his release from another case. Investigative authorities have charged him with joining a terrorist group and spreading false news.
Rejection of Violations and Demands for Release:
CFJ rejects the violations targeting human rights defenders in Egypt, especially human rights lawyers who are considered the first line of defense for the rights of detainees in Egypt. The committee calls upon the Egyptian authorities to provide a safe environment for them.
The organization also demands the release of the lawyer and human rights defender, Qasim Mahrous Abdelkafi, due to him exceeding the period of pretrial detention stipulated by law. Furthermore, it calls for the release of the lawyer and human rights defender, Said Hassan Ali, and for an end to his placement in various cases with the same charges.