On Court sentences in Egypt: Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini

EU News 161/2015

Brussels, 16/06/2015
150616_03_en

Today's confirmation of the death sentences on former President Mohammed Morsi and five others in Egypt comes as a result of mass trials, related to a jail break in 2011, and is a worrying development. The EU opposes capital punishment under all circumstances.  The death penalty is cruel and does not serve any deterrent purpose. It represents an unacceptable denial of human dignity and integrity. The EU expects these sentences to be revised in the appeals procedure.

This coincides with a court decision in another mass trial  transforming the death penalty into life sentences of 25 years for former President Mohamed Morsi and many of his supporters as well as prison sentences in the other cases, in connection to conspiring with foreign groups. These sentences and procedures are in  breach of Egypt's obligations under international law.

The EU reiterates its call on the Egyptian authorities to abide by their international obligations, to uphold the right to a fair trial and safeguard due legal process, including the defendants' rights to a fair trial based on clear charges and proper and independent investigations. Stability and the rule of law need to be guaranteed.

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2015/150616_03_en.htm

File Photo: Discussion between Mohamed Morsi, on the right, and Catherine Ashton Date: 19/06/2013 Reference: P-023497/00-04 Location: Cairo (C)EU, 2013 URL

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