Press release
Cairo:23/3/2003

 EOHR Issues an Urgent Appeal Requesting the Disclosure of the Whereabouts of  Hamdin Sabbahi

            EOHR expresses its deep concern regarding news that People’s Assembly Member Hamdin Sabbahi, age 49, was kidnapped by four persons dressed in civilian clothing outside his home on Ahmed Orabi Street, Mohandaseen, Cairo.  His attorney, Mr. Mohamed Moneib (who was also former Secretary General of EOHR and is current president of the African Democracy and Human Rights Council in Gambia), said to EOHR that Hamdin Sabbahi, both a People’s Assembly Member and member of the Board of Journalists Syndicate, while leaving his home today at 4:15 p.m., was kidnapped by four people wearing plain clothing.  They attacked and contained him despite building security’s interference.  The anonymous men pushed security guards away, threatened them with guns, placed Mr. Sabbahi into a private car and took him to an undisclosed location. 

            Mr. Sabbahi is a founding member of the El Karama movement and an activist in an anti-war committee as well.  His attorney mentioned that his client was beaten last Friday, March 21, 2003 in front of the Bar Association while trying to protect another citizen from being beaten by security forces outside the building.  The following day, Mr. Sabbahi was arrested after having asked the People’s Assembly to question the Minister of the Interior about police exceeds when arresting thousands of citizens during demonstrations that rocked Cairo March 20, 2003.  The Ministry of the Interior has not yet set a date for such an investigation.  Also, Mr. Moneib warned of health issues Mr. Sabbahi faces, including high blood pressure, hepatitis and rheumatism as well as his need to regularly take prescribed medications.  We express our profound concern regarding the illegality of his arrest; as a member of parliament he should have immunity.  He is not on probation; there is no reason why such diplomatic privilege should be suspended.  In particular, to remove his diplomatic immunity, a majority of members of the People’s Assembly must agree.  That did not happen here.  EOHR reiterates its deep concern and demands from the Minister of the Interior the following:

·        A guarantee of his safety;

·        Disclosure of his whereabouts (so his family and attorney may contact him), an update on his status;

·        His immediate release.  His arrest and kidnapping breach Egyptian laws as well as the Constitution as well as a breach of separation of powers.  All entities, including the Executive authority, shall respect the rule of law.