The US delegation currently visiting Cairo said the United States supports Egypt's security and stability and calls for the punishment of those involved in crimes of violence, but at the same time demands an end to torture and the violation of detainee rights, fearing it could lead Islamists and Brotherhood supporters to join terrorist organizations.
This came at a meeting on Monday between Hafez Abu Seada, chairman of the Egyptian Organization for Human Rights, and the head of the delegation, who said terrorism is increasing despite stringent security measures. He also criticized the death sentences that were handed to 500 defendants in Minya, wondering how 500 people could be convicted of killing two police officers, but Abu Seada explained that the sentences were canceled by the Court of Cassation.
Abu Seada said the meeting also discussed the NGO law, pointing out that he explained to the delegation that he personally prefers that the President issue the law without waiting for parliament to be elected.
He also said that he has conveyed a general feeling among the Egyptian people that the US administration supports terrorism.
Abu Seada denied false reports about 43,000 people being detained in Egypt, explaining that there are only 205 trials involving 4,800 defendants of which 1,800 are fugitives.
Asked about his visits to inspect prison conditions, he said his last visit was in May. “We report any violations to the Prosecutor General,” he said.
He said the new constitution has a good legislative basis that will help improve the human rights situation and Egypt's commitments to the UN Human Rights Council.
The US Embassy had invited certain activists and human rights organizations to meet with the US delegation, but they have all declined, including the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights.
