Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi’s family appeals to Lebanese PM Najib Mikati for his release, fearing deportation to Egypt may endanger his life. Al-Qaradawi, arrested due to an Egyptian warrant, faces a prison sentence for opposing the state. His family highlights potential human rights abuses if he is extradited, emphasizing Lebanon’s historical stance on freedom and justice.
The family of Egyptian activist Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi has made an urgent appeal to the Prime Minister of Lebanon, Najib Mikati, seeking his intervention to prevent al-Qaradawi’s potential deportation to Egypt. They express grave concerns for his safety and well-being, particularly given a history of human rights violations in Egypt. The family’s request follows al-Qaradawi’s arrest at the Masnaa border crossing after he entered Lebanon from Syria, based on an Egyptian arrest warrant. Al-Qaradawi is currently imprisoned due to a five-year sentence imposed by an Egyptian court in absentia for charges related to opposing the state and inciting terrorism, stemming from an article he wrote in 2012.
In a press release from Sunday, family members stated that they are counting on Lebanon’s historical commitment to freedom and justice. They emphasized the humanitarian need for the immediate release of al-Qaradawi, who has three daughters awaiting his return in Istanbul. The family described his potential extradition as dangerous, highlighting fears of torture and other human rights abuses should he be returned to Egypt, where he has been a persistent critic of the government, particularly under President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. His lawyer echoed these fears, citing the risks associated with his life if deported, given Egypt’s notorious reputation for repressing political dissidents.
Al-Qaradawi, who formerly opposed the Mubarak regime and has been critical of Egypt’s current leadership post-2013 coup, has become a focal point for discussions regarding human rights and political repression in the region. His recent arrest raises significant concerns regarding Lebanon’s role in processing extradition requests, particularly when the requested individual faces severe consequences like torture or imprisonment in their home country. The apprehension surrounding his situation highlights broader issues regarding political asylum and the ethical obligations of sovereign nations in protecting activists and opposition figures.
In summary, the arrest of Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi has prompted serious concerns from his family regarding his potential extradition to Egypt, where he may face severe human rights violations. They have called upon the Lebanese Prime Minister for immediate intervention. The situation underscores important discussions about humanitarian law and the protections afforded to political dissidents, particularly in light of the troubling record of human rights abuses in Egypt under the current regime. The family’s pleas represent the urgent need for support and protection for individuals at risk due to political opposition.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
