U.S. Representative Al Green (D) is calling on Egyptian authorities to release six detained journalists and protect independent media following reports of arrests, alleged torture, and legal action against independent news organizations.
In a statement, Green expressed concern over the detention of six journalists affiliated with Matsadaash, an independent investigative journalism platform, and proceedings targeting the Egyptian news outlet Mads Masr and its editor-in-chief, Lina Attalah.
According to Amnesty International and the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights, Egyptian security forces arrested Mohamed Ashraf Abu Emeira, Abdallah Qadry, Islam Barakat, Omar Helal, Mohamed Mahmoud and Mohamed Adel on Sept. 28 and 29.
Human rights organizations reported that the journalists were held in undisclosed locations for five to six days without access to their families or legal counsel. The organizations also allege that the journalists were subjected to torture and mistreatment, including attempts to coerce fabricated statements.
The six journalists reportedly face terrorism-related charges and accusations of spreading false information. All six have denied the charges, according to Green's statement.
Green also raised concerns about legal action against Mada Masr. On Oct. 7, an Egyptian court ordered the outlet's website closed and imposed a fine of 3 million Egyptian pounds, according to Amnesty International. The ruling is subject to appeal.
Attalah faces a separate criminal trial scheduled for Nov. 11 on allegations involving the spread of false information and operating a website without a license. She could face imprisonment if convicted.
"Based on the information provided to me, I join Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders, and other international human rights organizations in condemning these reported actions against independent journalists in Egypt," said Green.
He called for the release of the six Matsadaash journalists and protection of Attalah's rights.
Green emphasized the importance of independent reporting, stating, "A free and independent press is fundamental to any society that claims to uphold democracy, justice, and the rule of law. Freedom of expression is not a privilege to be granted or withdrawn at the discretion of those in power. It is a fundamental human right that must be protected."
He also called for an independent investigation into the allegations of torture and mistreatment, urging Egyptian authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
"Let us be clear: No government should silence journalists merely for reporting information that those in power may find objectionable," said Green. "Justice demands that freedom of expression, due process, and human dignity be respected and protected for all."
