An Egyptian appeals court has upheld a one-year prison sentence against former presidential hopeful Ahmed Altantawy, who attempted to challenge President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi in last year’s election. Altantawy was convicted in February on charges of disseminating unauthorized endorsement forms for his candidacy and was also barred from national elections for five years. Despite being released on bail during the appeal process, Altantawy was taken into custody by security forces after the court’s ruling on Monday.
Altantawy withdrew from the presidential race last year after failing to collect enough signatures from voters to qualify for nomination, citing harassment from state security agencies towards his staff and supporters. President el-Sissi was reelected for a third term by a large majority in the election. The court also upheld the sentences against 22 of Altantawy’s aides, including his campaign manager.
This decision has raised concerns about the ongoing crackdown on political dissent in Egypt, with critics accusing the government of stifling opposition voices and limiting the democratic process. Altantawy, who was considered the most viable opposition candidate, now faces imprisonment and exclusion from future election opportunities. The ruling has sparked outrage among activists and human rights organizations, who call for greater respect for political freedoms and civil liberties in the country.
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