Family Appeals for Release of Poet Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi from Lebanese Detention
Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi’s family has requested the release of the Egyptian poet from Lebanese custody, alleging that his detention is based on false accusations from a prior ruling in Egypt. His family fears for his safety and claims extradition could risk his life. The case reflects ongoing human rights violations in the region, particularly regarding dissenters.
The family of Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian poet, has formally appealed to Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati for his immediate release from detention in Lebanon. They assert that his detention is grounded in false accusations stemming from an unjust ruling made against him in Egypt in 2017. This conviction occurred in absentia, accusing him of disseminating false information and literary works critical of the Egyptian government under President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi. His family, residing in Turkey, has expressed deep concern over his safety in Lebanese custody, especially if extradition plans materialize, which they believe could jeopardize his life due to known human rights abuses in Egypt and the UAE.
The controversy surrounding Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi’s arrest is linked to accusations from the UAE, which purportedly requested his arrest based on a video where he criticized Arab regimes and called for their overthrow. His attorney, Mohammed Sablouh, highlighted the illegality of such an extradition, considering there is no extradition treaty between Lebanon and the UAE, and noting that Qaradawi is not a UAE citizen. Additionally, Haydee Dijkstal, an international law expert, emphasized that extraditing individuals to countries where they face probable torture would violate Lebanon’s obligations under the UN Convention against Torture.
Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi was detained upon his return to Beirut from Syria, allegedly due to collaboration between Lebanese and Egyptian authorities targeting dissidents. He is recognized for his involvement in the 2011 Egyptian revolution against Mubarak and has been a vocal critic of current governmental policies in his country. His father, the late Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, was a notable spiritual leader of the banned Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt. The family is urging the Lebanese government to take a stance that will prioritize Abdulrahman’s safety and freedom.
The case of Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi is emblematic of the increasing tensions in the Middle East regarding freedom of expression and human rights. His detention is rooted in a broader context of political oppression faced by dissidents, particularly those who have openly criticized existing regimes in Egypt and the UAE. The political landscape in these countries is often marked by crackdowns on dissenting voices, which is illustrated by Al-Qaradawi’s previous convictions and the contentious nature of his political activism. Furthermore, Lebanon’s involvement in these extradition processes raises significant questions regarding legal frameworks and international treaties that govern human rights and the treatment of prisoners within the region.
In conclusion, the plea by Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi’s family to Lebanese authorities highlights significant human rights concerns stemming from his detention. The situation sheds light on the intricate dynamics of political repression and international law in the Middle East, particularly regarding extradition practices. The family’s urgent call for intervention underscores the risks faced by dissidents and the potential violations of international treaties that protect individuals from torture and unjust treatment. As this situation unfolds, it remains essential for Lebanon to uphold its commitments to human rights and safeguard the welfare of those in its custody.
Original Source: www.newarab.com