Ahmed El-Zend, former Minister of Justice and former president of the Judges Club, passed away following a health crisis.
His son had publicly asked the public to pray for his father’s recovery during his final days in the hospital.
Funeral Arrangements at Al-Mosheer Tantawy Mosque
Mourners will gather today, Saturday, to hold the funeral prayers for El-Zend following the afternoon (Asr) prayer at the Al-Mosheer Tantawy Mosque in Cairo. Former Judges Club Deputy Hamdy Abd El-Tawwab announced the service details, noting that family members, judicial figures, and public personalities are expected to attend.
Did You Know? Born in 1946 in the village of Damtنو (Damtnou) in Gharbia Governorate, Ahmed El-Zend graduated from Al-Azhar University’s Faculty of Sharia and Law in 1970 before embarking on a decades-long legal and judicial career that included serving as head of the Sharia Court in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
Judicial Career and Political Clashes
El-Zend served a six-year tenure leading the Judges Club of Egypt from 2009 to 2015. During those years, he became a prominent and polarizing figure in the country's judicial and political systems.
His career highlights how judicial bodies frequently found themselves at the center of national political disputes, particularly surrounding the governance of former President Morsi.
Transition to the Executive Branch
On May 20, 2015, El-Zend transitioned from the judiciary to executive governance when he was appointed Minister of Justice under the cabinet of Prime Minister Ibrahim Mahlab. He retained his portfolio under the subsequent government led by Prime Minister Sherif Ismail, remaining a central figure in legal and administrative affairs until his departure from the post.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is Ahmed El-Zend’s funeral taking place?
The funeral prayers are scheduled for Saturday afternoon following the Asr prayer at the Al-Mosheer Tantawy Mosque in Cairo, with burial to follow in the Cairo cemeteries along the Ain Sokhna road.
What roles did Ahmed El-Zend hold during his career?
El-Zend served as the head of the Sharia Court in Ras Al Khaimah in the UAE, president of the Judges Club of Egypt from 2009 to 2015, and Minister of Justice starting in May 2015 under prime ministers Ibrahim Mahlab and Sherif Ismail.
What caused his death?
He passed away following a health crisis that required hospitalization and medical supervision during his final days.
What are your reflections on the legacy of Ahmed El-Zend within Egypt’s judicial history?