On 18 July 2023, Christian human rights defender Patrick George Zaki was sentenced to three years in prison. Sentences handed down by the Emergency State Security Court are final; they cannot be contested, though they must be ratified or rejected by the president.
The very next day, Mr Zaki was pardoned by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This was wonderful news – a hopeful indicator of the president’s personal commitment to improve human rights in Egypt.
However, we must not forget the ordeal of injustice Mr Zaki experienced for more than three years: his arrest in Cairo Airport in February 2020; the 22 months held in pre-trial detention; the unfounded charges of ‘spreading fake news inside and outside Egypt’. All this in connection with his peaceful human rights work.
Find out more at csw.org.uk/egypt
Sunday 7 January
Today is Coptic Christmas Day. Ask God to protect Coptic families as they gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus, Emmanuel. May they feel afresh the blessing of God with them.
Monday 8 January
Thank God that Patrick George Zaki was pardoned in July. Pray that he will be able to resume his life without further disruption or fear. Mr Zaki is a researcher at one of a few human rights organisations still functioning in Egypt: the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights.
Tuesday 9 January
President Sisi also pardoned lawyer Mohammad Al Baqer, who was arrested in 2019 while representing pro-democracy activist Alaa Abdel Fattah. Mr Baqer had been sentenced to four years in prison for ‘spreading fake news and undermining national security’. May justice reign for those facing similar unfounded charges because of their religion, belief, or their human rights work.
Wednesday 10 January
Mr Zaki is one of several human rights defenders who have been detained without trial for longer than the legal limits. He was held in pre-trial detention for 22 months (February 2020-December 2021). Pray that this practice would end.
Thursday 11 January
Pray for the immediate and unconditional release of all those detained on excessive charges in relation to their human rights; including freedom of religion or belief, and freedom of expression.
Friday 12 January
‘There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.’ (Proverbs 23:18) Pray that Egyptian Christians will be strengthened with hope and encouraged by the certain promises of God, even amid persecution.
Saturday 13 January
Lord, pour out your hope over Egypt. We particularly remember those held for excessive, unspecified periods in pre-trial detention, including Christians and those standing up for human rights. May the year ahead bring positive transformation for people of all religions or beliefs. Amen.