September 3, 2011

Dozens of activists staged a protest in front of the Journalists Syndicate to express their rejection of military trials for civilians.

They also called for the release of activists tried in military courts, particularly Mikel Nabil, who was sentenced to three years imprisonment for insulting the Armed Forces.

They also called for the release of Asmaa Mahfouz and Loay Nagaty. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces withdrew reports it had filed against both activists.

Nabil’s brother, Mark Nabil, said the protest calls for Mikel’s immediate release and added that the protests will continue until his release is obtained.

Rasha Abdallah, a member of a group named "No to Military Trials," said members of her group are participating in the protest to support freedom of expression in general. She added that people have the right to express their opinions even if others reject them.

Egyptian security forces arrested Nabil on 28 March after he published an article on his blog that claimed the army was involved in torturing detainees during the 25 January revolution. The article cited international news reports in making his claim.

The military prosecution charged Nabil with "publishing false information" and "insulting the Armed Forces."

Internet activists launched campaigns to support Nabil on Facebook and Twitter and call for his release. Rights organizations say trying civilians before military tribunals violates the principle of due process.

Translated from the Arabic Edition

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