Freed British-Egyptian Activist Not Allowed to Fly to UK, Family Says
British-Egyptian pro-democracy activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, recently released from prison, has faced another setback as Egyptian authorities prevented him from boarding a flight to the UK. His family reported the incident, emphasizing the ongoing struggles he encounters even after gaining freedom.
– Alaa Abdel Fattah, 43, was once Egypt’s most prominent political prisoner. He received a pardon from President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi just seven weeks ago.
– Attempting to travel to London with his sister Sanaa, he was stopped at Cairo International Airport; officials informed him he was not permitted to fly.
– “They blocked him from boarding, and I had to go alone,” Sanaa told BBC’s Today programme. She noted that no clear explanation was provided by authorities.
– Despite possessing both a British passport and a newly renewed Egyptian passport, his travel was denied. Sanaa initially thought the passport renewal would secure his ability to leave Egypt.
Alaa Abdel Fattah’s Family Situation
Alaa’s 13-year-old son, Khaled, resides in Brighton with his mother, where he is enrolled in a special needs school due to being on the autism spectrum. Khaled was able to spend a month with Alaa post-release but has returned to the UK.
– “We’re glad to have Alaa back in our lives, albeit partially free, but he needs freedom of movement to fully reunite with his son,” Sanaa stated. “Khaled needs his father present in his life.”
– Sanaa has urged the UK government, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, to prioritize Alaa’s situation as the family awaits a resolution.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) expressed support for Alaa’s case, stating, “President Sisi’s decision to pardon and release Alaa Abdel Fattah was a significant step forward.” They continue to advocate for his urgent return to the UK for a reunion with his family.
In a recent ceremony, Alaa and his mother received the 2025 Magnitsky Award for “Courage Under Fire,” recognizing their fight against oppression and injustice. Leila Abdel Fattah, Alaa’s mother, notably undertook a 287-day hunger strike last year to protest her son’s imprisonment, enduring significant health challenges in the process.
The plight of Alaa Abdel Fattah underscores the ongoing struggle for human rights in Egypt, echoing the broader narrative of dissent and repression in the region. His family remains hopeful for a future where he can reunite with his son and regain his freedom of movement.