Father on Hunger Strike in Egyptian Jail

CAIRO, EGYPT (15 August 2024) – Abdulbaqi Saeed Abdo, a father imprisoned for over two-and-a-half years for discussing theology with Christian converts on Facebook, has initiated a hunger strike to protest his detention. In a poignant letter to his family, Abdo expressed his deep longing for them and outlined his plan to escalate the hunger strike until he receives justice, stating he was arrested without legal justification. His health has reportedly deteriorated during his imprisonment. Religious freedom advocates are rallying for Abdo's immediate release, emphasizing the unjust nature of his detention. Kelsey Zorzi, Director of Advocacy for Global Religious Freedom at ADF International, highlighted the urgent need for action, calling Abdo's letter a "devastating cry for help." She criticized the Egyptian authorities for their gross human rights violations and the misuse of laws to suppress minority beliefs. U.S. Representative Chris Smith also condemned Abdo's imprisonment, asserting that he has been held for over two years solely for sharing his Christian faith online. Smith's remarks underscore the broader implications of Abdo's case, which reflects systemic issues regarding religious freedom in Egypt. The United Nations has taken notice of the situation, with the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief receiving reports about Abdo and another detainee, Nour Girgis. Both men are said to have been denied their rights to religious freedom and a fair trial, raising international concerns about Egypt's treatment of religious minorities.