Egyptian authorities yesterday released journalist and opposition figure Khaled Dawoud after detaining him for more than 20 months over his criticism of the government, local media reported.
Member of the Syndicate of Egyptian Journalists, Hisham Younis, said that the authorities told the Syndicate that Dawoud had been released following a ruling by the Public Prosecutor.
It’s heartwarming to see photos of Solafa Magdy & Hossam El-Sayad finally reunited with their son & to see Khaled Dawoud with his family after their release. They shouldn’t have been imprisoned in the first place. Keeping hopes high for all the rest who are unjustly imprisoned 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/ClqgTAs1ne
— Nancy Okail (@NancyGEO) April 14, 2021
Gamal Eid, Dawoud’s lawyer, said an investigation into whether he disseminated false news and joined an outlawed group was still ongoing.
Dawoud headed the Constitution Party. He was arrested along with several other opposition figures over claims he was spreading false news or cooperating with a terrorist group.
Prominent lawyer Khaled Ali wrote on Facebook: “Thanks to Allah… The Public Prosecution ordered the release of Khaled Dawoud. I am pleased to hear his voice speaking with me while at home.”
READ: Egypt ‘regrets’ UN criticism of its human rights conditions