US decries verdict against Egyptian-American activist

0 Comments | AFP, August, 2008

WASHINGTON (AFP) — The United States on Monday decried the verdict by an Egyptian court last week sentencing in absentia exiled human rights activist Saad Eddin Ibrahim to two years in prison for defaming Egypt.

"We are disappointed by the recent conviction in Egypt of democracy activist Dr. Saad Eddin Ibrahim," State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos said in a statement.

"Lawsuits should not be used to undermine the principles of freedom of expression. We strongly advocate -- in all countries -- the protection of civil and political rights, including freedom of speech and due process," the US spokesman said.

On Saturday, a Cairo court sentenced Ibrahim, 69, to two years behind bars for "tarnishing Egypt's reputation," after a series of articles and...