Ibrahim Halawa case adjourned despite hopes for progress

The trial of Irish citizen Ibrahim Halawa in Cairo has been adjourned, despite hopes that the case was finally moving towards conclusion.

Mr Halawa, 21, was 17 at the time of his arrest in 2013 and has been charged with serious offences related to his alleged participation in a political protest, all of which he strongly denies. His lawyers believe that, if convicted, he may face the death penalty.

His trial, which has already been adjourned 21 times, was thought to be progressing after eleven witnesses gave evidence in early April.

The judge in the case had also undertaken to examine the request by Mr Halawa’s lawyers for him to be released on medical grounds.

However, following the latest hearing, Amnesty International has said it is “unclear” whether the court has considered the request.

Colm O’Gorman, executive director of Amnesty International Ireland, said: “This young man’s ordeal has been nothing short of horrific. He was just 17 years old when he was first detained in August 2013 and has spent 1,348 nights unjustly incarcerated.

“Amnesty International continues to be gravely concerned for Ibrahim’s physical and mental health. We reiterate our call on the Egyptian authorities to drop all charges against him and for his immediate and unconditional release.

“We also urge the Irish Government to continue working on his behalf and to use every means at their disposal to secure his release,.”

The trial has been scheduled to continue on 9 May 2017.