Egypt responds to anti-Sisi protests with wave of arrests

Egyptian security forces arrested three political activists known for outspoken criticism of Egypt’s government and president, lawyers said Wednesday amid an intensified crackdown following small but rare anti-government protests over the weekend.

The demonstrations erupted over corruption allegations earlier this month against the military and President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, by an Egyptian businessman living in self-imposed exile.

El-Sissi, who is currently attending the United Nations General Assembly, has dismissed the corruption allegations as “sheer lies.”

Police quickly dispersed the protests, but they signified a startling eruption of street unrest.

Demonstrations have been almost completely silenced in recent years, with those who dare take to the streets being quickly arrested and receiving lengthy prison sentences.

 

Via France 24

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