-—FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE—-
NEW YORK, NY (March 27, 2014) – The Islamic Circle of North America denounces the impending mass military trials of 919 individuals announced by Egypt’s chief prosecutor on Wednesday, and the police crackdown on protestors in which a teenage student was killed.
For three years, Egyptians have been working for representative leadership that safeguards and protects their economic, social and political rights. Such trials fail to adhere to basic standards of justice and indicate a blatant disregard for international law.
Secretary of State Kerry urged Egyptian authorities to remedy the situation. “Maintaining a criminal justice system free of intimidation and political retribution are essential functions of a legitimate government,” he said.
“The Egyptian authorities must abide by due process,” said Naeem Baig, president of ICNA. “An individual trial is the right of the accused.”