British-Egyptian dissident Alaa Abd el-Fattah has arrived in London after the Egyptian government lifted a travel ban previously imposed on him, despite releasing him from jail in September.
A Decade of Detention
Abd el-Fattah had been held in jail for nearly ten years, largely due to his opposition to the Egyptian government’s treatment of dissidents. He remained in detention for two years beyond the completion of his five-year sentence, as authorities did not recognize his pre-trial detention period as time served.
A previous attempt to travel to London in November was blocked by Egyptian security forces. Abd el-Fattah had been seeking an agreement allowing free travel between Cairo and London, without permanent exclusion from Egypt should he reside in the UK.
Family Relief and Future Travel
The news of Abd el-Fattah’s arrival was announced by his mother, Laila Soueif, on Facebook. His sister, Mona Seif, expressed disbelief and relief, stating, “We thought it was impossible, but here he is.” The family believes the agreement reached will permit travel between the UK and Egypt.
James Lynch of FairSquare, a human rights organization supporting the family, stated he was “delighted” Abd el-Fattah was reunited with his son after “such a lengthy ordeal lasting well over a decade.”
Abd el-Fattah’s mother’s eight-month hunger strike, during which she was twice hospitalized, was undertaken to pressure the UK Foreign Office to increase its efforts to secure his release. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made three calls to his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fatah al-Sisi, and the UK national security adviser also urged Abd el-Fattah’s release.
Reuniting with Family
Abd el-Fattah has a teenage son, Khaled, who lives in Brighton and attends a special educational needs school. Khaled visited his father in Cairo after his release, a reunion described as successful. His sister, Sanaa, previously emphasized the importance of Abd el-Fattah’s ability to travel to be with his son, stating, “Khaled needs his father.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was Alaa Abd el-Fattah detained?
Abd el-Fattah was held in jail nearly continuously for 10 years, and for two years beyond his initial five-year sentence.
What was the reason for his initial detention?
He was primarily detained for expressing his opposition to the treatment of dissidents by the Egyptian government.
What has been the response from the British government?
Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated he was “delighted” Abd el-Fattah was back in the UK and expressed gratitude to President Sisi for granting the pardon.
What does the future hold for Alaa Abd el-Fattah and his family as they navigate this new chapter?
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