The S&D Group in the European Parliament condemns the killings of at least 16 demonstrators in Cairo last weekend during the peaceful commemoration of the January 25 uprising. The S&Ds also call for a swift investigation of the shooting of Shaimaa al-Sabbagh, a member of Egypt's Socialist Popular Alliance Party.
In a letter sent today to the Commission's vice-president, Federica Mogherini, members of the S&D Group – along with members from other political groups – demanded an investigation into this murder and that those responsible must be held accountable. They also requested the release of the peaceful demonstrators – six socialist activists and some journalists – who were arrested on Saturday.
Gianni Pittella, S&D president, said:
“It is an absurd tragedy that Shaimaa al-Sabbagh was killed on the anniversary of the successful uprising of the Egyptian people against the dictatorial regime that trampled on human rights and dignity. Her murder is a grim reminder of Egypt's worrying spiral when it comes to the respect for basic rights and freedoms since July 2013.
“We encourage the Egyptian authorities to keep on fighting terrorism and stabilising the region. However we call on Cairo's government to show true and evident commitment to the respect for basic rights and freedoms, in accordance with Egypt's international commitments."
Tanja Fajon, S&D vice-president, said:
“We expect a thorough investigation from the prosecutor. Sabbagh was bringing flowers to the memorial of the 2011 revolution in Tahrir Square when police officers forcefully dispersed the march and Sabbagh was shot dead. There will be no real democracy or reconciliation without political freedom and the protection of basic human rights. All journalists and members of the Socialist Popular Alliance Party should be released.
“We urge the Egyptian government to change its course of action and show true commitment to the respect for basic rights and freedoms. We also call on the government to urgently address concerns on human rights abuses as registered, among others, in the resolution adopted by the European Parliament on 15 January."
