[ad_1]
Author's right of the image
Getty Images
Rights activists have campaigned for the immediate release of Amal Fathy
An Egyptian court sentenced Amal Fathy, a human rights activist, to a two-year suspended sentence and a fine for "spreading false information."
She has been in detention since May after posting a video criticizing the government about the extent of sexual harassment in the country.
Amnesty International said it was "a scandalous case of injustice".
Egypt recently passed a law that strengthens controls on the Internet, a move condemned by human rights defenders.
The law on "cybercrime" means that websites can be stuck in Egypt if they are deemed to pose a threat to national security or the economy.
It also places all social media accounts with more than 5,000 subscribers under surveillance.
The Egyptian authorities have stated that measures are needed to combat instability and terrorism.
According to correspondents, street protests in Egypt being almost banned, the Internet is one of the last forums left for Egyptians to express their disagreement.
- Egypt strengthens control over the use of the Internet
- Pay the price of seeking freedom in Egypt
What about the Amal Fathy affair?
In addition to the suspended sentence, the court sentenced Saturday to a fine of 10,000 Egyptian pounds (£ 430, 560 dollars).
She would appeal the verdict, her lawyer told the Reuters news agency.
In May, Amal Fathy posted a 12-minute video on Facebook in which she described how she was sexually harassed when visiting her bank.
She also criticized the government for not doing enough to protect women.
She was arrested two days later and charged with attempting to attack the Egyptian state and possession of indecent material.
Reacting to Saturday's verdict, Amnesty International said in a statement: "Amal Fathy is now being sentenced to shame just for having the courage to denounce sexual harassment.
"She's not a criminal and should not be punished for her courage."
Human Rights Watch recently said that Egyptian authorities are increasingly using anti-terrorism and emergency laws and tribunals to prosecute journalists, activists, and critics for criticism unfairly. peaceful.
The Egyptian authorities have not yet decided on the decision.
