Mother of jailed British Egyptian activist vows to continue hunger strike despite risk of death
British Egyptian activist's mother begins hunger strike
The mother of a British Egyptian activist, currently jailed for unspecified charges, has announced that she will continue her hunger strike despite warnings from doctors that it may lead to her death. The activist, well-known for advocating for the rights of Egyptian citizens, had been arrested several months prior. The timing and specificity of the charges remain unclear. The woman, who is in her sixties, claims that she will not end the strike until her son is released from custody. She is reportedly being held at a local hospital due to concerns for her health. The authorities have made no comment on the matter and her son's legal team are seeking bail.
Activist's supporters rally across Britain
Supporters of the activist have organized rallies across Britain, with hundreds of people attending marches in London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Leeds. The protests were peaceful, with attendees calling for the activist's release and chanting slogans against the British and Egyptian governments. Many of the supporters have also taken to social media to share their stories and campaign for the activist's release. This has led to a trending hashtag on multiple social media sites that has gained the attention of mainstream media outlets.
Response from officials
Officials from the British Embassy in Cairo have expressed concerns about the situation and have been in contact with the activist's legal team and the Egyptian government. They have reportedly been pushing for a resolution to the ongoing situation and have made requests for clarification on the charges and for a fair and speedy trial for the activist. The Egyptian government has yet to respond to these requests. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office said: "We are concerned by the ongoing detainment of this British national in Egypt. We have been in touch with their family and are providing support. We are in contact with the Egyptian authorities and have raised the case at a senior level."
Potential consequences
The activist's hunger strike is likely to worsen relations between Britain and Egypt. The British government has recently expressed concern over human rights in Egypt, and this incident will add to that cause. The activist's fate risks becoming a significant diplomatic issue. Many are concerned that the situation will have a negative impact on British-Egyptian relations and further complicate the situation in the region.
