Trial of Alleged Torture Victims Displays Ingrained ImpunityEgypt's government has reached a new low around torture. On January 24, the same day the Guardian published the leaked videos, unnamed security officials told Egyptian media, without investigation, that the videos were fabricated. On February 15, Egypt's Office of the Prosecutor General issued a statement claiming that the allegations of torture accompanying the leaked recordings were false. The case shows that Egypt needs an independent mechanism, preferably with an international dimension, to address endemic torture in detention, and hold accountable those who perpetrate or cover up torture. The state response to the shocking videos speaks volumes regarding the absence of political will to address security forces abuses in President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's government, which instead punishes victims and whistleblowers.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 11, 2022 21:46 UTC