Egyptian protester distributes 'publications'; sentenced to a year in prison

On 26 December 2011, the Al Waily Misdemeanor Court handed down a one-year prison sentence against Gaber Sayed Gaber Abdel Haq, in addition to a LE 200 (approx. US$33) fine and payment of court costs. Gaber was charged with "distribution of publications against national peace and security" while participating in a protest organised on 23 December in Abbasia.

Hafez Abu Seada, the head of EOHR, stated that the court decision constitutes a serious violation of freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly, which are rights guaranteed under internationally-recognised human rights standards.

EOHR calls for reconsideration of the Egyptian legislative structure in order to eliminate all articles that are against freedom of expression, which were inherited from the past regime.

EOHR also expresses concern over the persecution of political and human rights activists after the revolution for simply expressing their points of view in a peaceful manner.

EOHR calls for the reconsideration of Gaber's conviction and for the charges against him to be dropped based on his right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. His protest activities on 23 December day did not exceed his rights under Egyptian law and international human rights standards.

Source: Egyptian Organisation for Human Rights (EOHR)