Egypt's Sisi Pardons Alaa Abd El-Fattah: 12-Year Prison Sentence Ends

Egyptian-British Activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah Freed After Sisi Pardon CAIRO, EGYPT - Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's pardon of six prisoners, including prominent British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abd El-Fattah, has led to the release of the human rights advocate after 12 years in prison. Abd El-Fattah, a former blogger and key figure in Egypt's Arab Spring uprising, was detained in 2011. His lengthy imprisonment and repeated hunger strikes sparked international calls for his release. On September 22, 2025, President el-Sisi pardoned Abd El-Fattah and five other prisoners, allowing the activist to return home. "We're happy, of course," said Laila Soueif, Abd El-Fattah's mother, as she stood alongside her son at their Giza home. "But our greatest joy will come when there are no political prisoners in Egypt." Her statement reflects the ongoing concerns about human rights and freedom of speech in Egypt. Abd El-Fattah's case drew significant attention from international organizations and governments. His imprisonment was seen as a symbol of Egypt's struggle with democracy and human rights. The activist's repeated hunger strikes, which lasted for months, raised awareness about the conditions of political prisoners in Egypt. The pardon comes at a time when Egypt is facing criticism over its human rights record. In recent years, the country has been accused of suppressing dissent and restricting civil liberties. President el-Sisi's decision to pardon Abd El-Fattah may be seen as an attempt to improve Egypt's image on the international stage. Abd El-Fattah's release marks a significant development in Egypt's human rights landscape. However, experts warn that more needs to be done to address the underlying issues. "This is a positive step, but it's just one step," said Hossam Bahgat, an Egyptian human rights activist. "We need to see systemic changes and reforms to ensure that no one else suffers like Alaa did." As Abd El-Fattah begins his new life outside of prison, he faces a long road to recovery. His health has suffered significantly during his imprisonment, and he will require medical attention in the coming weeks. The Egyptian government's decision to pardon Abd El-Fattah raises questions about the role of international pressure in securing human rights. The case highlights the importance of continued advocacy for human rights and freedom of speech around the world. Background: Alaa Abd El-Fattah was detained in 2011 during Egypt's Arab Spring uprising. He was accused of inciting violence and sentenced to five years in prison. His imprisonment sparked international calls for his release, with many viewing him as a symbol of Egypt's struggle with democracy and human rights. Additional Perspectives: "Alaa's release is a testament to the power of international pressure," said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Rights Watch. "But we must continue to push for systemic changes in Egypt." "This is a positive development, but we need to see more from President el-Sisi on human rights," said Amr Magdi, an Egyptian human rights activist. Current Status: Abd El-Fattah has been released and is currently receiving medical attention. His family and friends are celebrating his return home, but experts warn that more needs to be done to address Egypt's human rights issues. The Egyptian government's decision to pardon Abd El-Fattah raises questions about the role of international pressure in securing human rights. *Reporting by Aljazeera.*