The family of Egyptian activist Abdul Rahman al-Qaradawi is urgently calling for his release from Lebanese authorities amidst concerns that he may face deportation to Egypt, where he is a wanted man. A press release issued by his family urges Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to intervene in the case of the poet and writer, who holds Turkish citizenship and resides with his family in Istanbul.
In their plea, the family expresses faith in the wisdom of Lebanese leadership, emphasizing Lebanon’s historical defense of freedoms. They implore the Prime Minister to secure al-Qaradawi’s safe return to his wife and three daughters in Istanbul. Al-Qaradawi, son of the late Yusuf al-Qaradawi, a prominent figure in the Muslim Brotherhood, was detained at the Masnaa border crossing on December 28, following an Egyptian arrest warrant.
Al-Qaradawi had been sentenced in absentia by an Egyptian court to five years in prison on charges of anti-state activities and inciting terrorism. The family argues that Lebanon risks endangering his life if extradited to Egypt, citing the country’s dismal human rights record and the potential for torture.
His defense lawyer in Lebanon, Mohammed Sablouh, stated concerns over potential mistreatment if al-Qaradawi is handed over to Egypt. The family’s correspondence is part of a broader effort to secure his release and ensure his safe return to Turkey, where he has resided for many years.
Al-Qaradawi, a vocal opponent of Hosni Mubarak and current Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, has faced persecution for his activism. His ongoing critique of Sisi’s regime following the ousting of President Mohamed Morsi in 2013 underscores his commitment to human rights and democracy in Egypt.
