Ultras Nahdawi marks 2nd anniversary with fresh protests

The Egyptian youth group Ultras Nahdawi celebrated its second anniversary on Friday with fresh protests across the country.

Ultras Nahdawi was founded on May 22, 2012 with the launching of the presidential campaign of the ousted president Mohamed Morsi. The name echoes football fan groups “Ultras” known for their instrumental role in the January 25 revolution.

After two years of its launch, Ultras Nahdawi lost dozens of members in the massacres that followed the military coup against the elected president Mohamed Morsi.

According to one of its founders, Ultras Nahdawi “includes youth members who either have or do not have political affiliations. They all supported Mohamed Morsi for president, then the idea evolved to become an entity with a specific goal and clear vision.”

Ultras Nahdawi youth represent a significant segment of anti-coup protesters. They were also active during the months-long Rabaa sit-in, where they galvanized protests with their zealous chants.

Members of the group pride themselves on leading youth protests, particularly at the Rabaa sit-in. “We were at the forefront of protesters on the day of dispersal. We offered martyrs who we will never forget,” a member told Al-Araby al-Gadid.

“We will continue our struggle and nationwide protests despite the crackdown on our members, and we will not give up on those unjustly detained.”