Egypt's Court of Cassation upheld convictions and three-year prison sentences of three activists Jan. 26 for violating the country's protest laws. Ahmed Maher, Ahmed Douma and Mohammed Adel were arrested under a law that bans political gatherings of more than 10 people without prior government permission. As the Court of Cassation is Egypt's highest, the convicted men have no further legal redress. Human Rights Watch has criticized the law since its drafting, claiming that it goes "well beyond the limitations permitted under international law" for the right to peacefully assemble. The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights also condemned the law, its spokesperson stating that "no one should be criminalized or subjected to any threats or acts of violence, harassment or persecution for addressing human rights issues through peaceful protests." Thousands have been arrested under this law, including many supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood.
From Jurist, Jan. 27. Used with permission.
Egypt: activist released from prison
Egyptian activist and youth leader Ahmed Maher, known for his role in the 2011 revolution, was released from prison on Jan. 4. Maher, as well as fellow activists Ahmed Douma and Mohammed Adel, had been arrested in 2013 for protesting against a new law that effectively bans public gatherings with more than 10 people. Egypt's Court of Cassation upheld their convictions and prison terms in 2015. Maher, though released, must remain under judicial supervision. (Jurist)