Alaa Abd El-Fattah: From Egyptian Prison to UK Reunion

Alaa Abd El-Fattah, a prominent activist, has finally arrived in the UK after enduring years in an Egyptian prison. Released in September due to a presidential pardon, Alaa, who holds British citizenship, has been a significant figure in Egypt's fight for freedom. His adult life has been marked by frequent incarcerations as a result of his activism.

A Long-Awaited Reunion

Alaa's family and the British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, announced his arrival on Friday. His mother, Laila Soueif, shared the joyous news on Facebook:

"Praise be to Allah, Alaa reached London safely."

The family released a longer statement, revealing that Alaa flew to Britain from Cairo after the travel ban was lifted on December 20. He is soon to be reunited with his 14-year-old son, Khaled, who resides in Brighton.

A Welcome Return

Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his delight at Alaa's return:

"I'm delighted that Alaa Abd el-Fattah is back in the UK and has been reunited with his loved ones, who must be feeling profound relief."

Starmer also extended his gratitude to Alaa's family and all those who advocated for his release.

Global Attention and Advocacy

Alaa's imprisonment and hunger strikes garnered international attention. Calls for his release intensified during the COP27 climate summit in 2022. Despite numerous campaigns, it was President Sisi who granted him a pardon in September this year. Prior to this, Alaa's name was removed from Egypt's "terrorism" list.