Photo: Coptic Solidarity
On October 5th, National Security officers arrived at the home of Sherif Wagih Fahmi and his family whose residence is located in Alexandria, Egypt. Claiming to work for a gas company, the officers gained entry into the family's apartment and immediately arrested the unsuspecting 41-year-old Christian husband and father. News sources also report that he has since been charged with speaking against Islam through an online post.
According to sources, Sherif was arrested after expressing concerns online about the imposition of Islamic education on students across the country. While religious instruction is compulsory in schools, non-Muslim students are legally permitted to opt out of Islamic classes. In practice, however, this rule is frequently disregarded.
Sherif's case highlights the increasing crackdown on non-Muslim activists. Since mid-September, at least 14 people have been arrested on allegations such as "joining an illegal group" or showing "contempt of religion." Sherif's sister, Emy, emphasized the importance of speaking up about the increasing erosion of the country's basic human rights. She stated, "If you give up your right(s) today, you won't find [them] tomorrow." For more information concerning the challenges facing followers of Christ in Egypt, visit our country profile.
- Pray that Sherif will experience God's peace, strength and reassuring presence while awaiting his hopeful soon release from custody, allowing him to be joyfully reunited with his family and justly granted constitutional freedom.
- Throughout the legal process, may the Lord also minister to Sherif's wife, children and the members of their extended family – providing them needed comfort, courage and peace as they too hope for a favourable outcome regarding his situation.
- In general, please uphold the many other believers throughout Egypt who have been arrested for peacefully expressing their convictions, praying that they will remain steadfast and that their rights would be duly upheld.
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