afrol News, 5 August - Egyptian human rights activists have condemned a two-year prison sentence to a prominent civil rights campaigner, Saad Eddin Ibrahim.

Mr Ibrahim, an open critic of president Hosni Mubarak is accused of defaming his country following a series of speeches and articles on citizenship and democracy, in which he criticised the Egyptian regime.

Charges and conviction were brought after Mr Ibrahim urged president George W Bush to link United States aid to Egypt to democratic reforms.

Activists say verdict harms the country's image, also claiming that Egypt abuses and misuses legal systems to silence opposition to president Mubarak.

Mr Ibrahim who was sentenced in absentia, went into exile several months ago after publishing a series of articles. He currently resides in United States. He has suggested that he wanted to return from exile abroad only if he could get assurances that he will not be arrested.

Egyptian Magistrate Court gave Mr Ibrahim an option of paying a surety of about US$2 000 to avoid imprisonment and chance to appeal against the sentence. His defense team said he would accept that option.

US spokesman said lawsuits should not be used to undermine the principles of freedom of expression, being one of basic human right. "We strongly advocate for all countries to ensure protection of civil and political rights, including freedom of speech," the US spokesman said.

"We are disappointed by the recent conviction in Egypt of democracy activist Dr Saad Eddin Ibrahim," State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos said in a statement.

Mr Ibrahim spent several months in prison after being slapped with seven years jail term in 2002 on similar charges, but was released on appeal.

Ibrahim's wife Barbara said she knew of at least six similar suits which judges had thrown out in recent months, often on grounds that plaintiffs had no direct interest in the case. "My assumption is that they have been trying to find a court that will finally get him," she said.

In recent times, public critics of Egyptian government policies have been targets of multiple lawsuits for discussing sensitive issues openly. Under Egyptian law, citizens may file suits against individuals who make statements that harm society, and the accused can face criminal punishment if found guilty.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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