Egypt sues 6 journalists for ‘terrorism’
Egyptian prosecutors accused six journalists from an independent fact-checking platform on Wednesday of terrorism-related offenses, alleging they worked for the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood and received foreign funding to spread “false news.”
The journalists, who make up the entire newsroom of Matsadaash, were arrested during raids across several governorates on Sept. 28 and Sept. 29, according to the outlet’s management and rights groups.
Matsadaash, whose name means “Don’t Believe It” in Arabic, has operated since 2018 and often investigates statements by officials and state bodies.
The Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights (EIPR), which represents the journalists, said they had reported torture following their arrests, allegations denied by the Ministry of Interior.
Egypt, which has long faced criticism over restrictions on media activity, is now holding 26 journalists in connection with their work following the latest arrests, according to the EIPR.
