The channel’s action violates both international standards of freedom of expression and the Egyptian Constitution, claimed the independent Journalists Against Torture Observatory (JATO), as well as the Labour Law. Badawi’s remarks were that minister Dalia Khorshid was “the worst minister in terms of administration”, accusing her of lack of initiative. In Badawi’s defence, JATO stated: “She did not commit any libel or slander, or contempt of the minister. JATO said that Badawi could sue the channel, using articles in the law related to violations committed by the channel when ending her contract. Formerly owned by business magnet Naguib Sawiris, ONTV channels were acquired by media business tycoon Ahmed Abou Hashima.

Source: Daily News Egypt October 18, 2016 12:00 UTC