Cairo, Egypt — The Egyptian judiciary has commenced a third simultaneous trial involving human rights lawyer Ibrahim Metwally Hegazy, alongside opposition leaders Abdel Moneim Aboul Fotouh and Mohamed Al-Qassas, intensifying scrutiny over the nation’s treatment of political dissent.
Metwally, widely recognized for co-founding the Association of the Families of the Disappeared, has long been a vocal advocate for victims of enforced disappearances. Aboul Fotouh, a former presidential candidate, and Al-Qassas, his deputy in the Strong Egypt Party, have also faced multiple charges in recent years, ranging from alleged membership in banned groups to spreading false news.
Critics argue that the simultaneous trials highlight what they describe as a pattern of judicial pressure on political opposition and civil society voices. Human rights organizations have repeatedly called for their release, citing prolonged pretrial detentions and concerns over due process.
The proceedings come amid a wider crackdown on dissent, as Egypt continues to face international attention regarding its human rights record. Observers note that the outcome of these trials could carry significant implications for political freedoms and the space for civil activism in the country.
