The family of Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi urges Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to facilitate the immediate release of the poet, who is detained in Lebanon under accusations they deem unjust. They fear for his safety, particularly regarding possible extradition to the UAE, given the country’s human rights record. Legal experts emphasize Lebanon’s obligations under international law against torture, especially in regard to potential extradition.
The family of Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian poet and writer, has formally requested Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati to expedite the release of their detained relative. They contend that his imprisonment is predicated upon unfounded accusations stemming from a harsh verdict in Egypt from 2017. This ruling, passed in absentia, accused him of disseminating false information through various media forms, a charge viewed as part of Egypt’s broader clampdown on dissent under President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi.
Abdulrahman is currently held in Lebanon, with the family highlighting the risk to his well-being amid potential extradition considerations, particularly to the UAE. They assert that his transfer could endanger his life, given the perilous human rights climate in such countries. His lawyer in Lebanon expressed that any extradition to the UAE would be illegal due to the absence of citizenship and a lack of a bilateral treaty regarding extradition.
International law expert Haydee Dijkstal reiterated concerns about Lebanon’s obligations under the United Nations Convention against Torture, urging caution lest Lebanon violate these principles by sending Abdulrahman to a nation notorious for human rights abuses. Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi was detained at Beirut International Airport upon his return from Syria, marking a significant collaboration between Lebanese and Egyptian authorities targeted towards opposition elements abroad. Historically, he played an influential role in the 2011 Egyptian revolution and has been a vocal critic of the current Egyptian regime.
Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi is the son of the late Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, a significant figure associated with the Muslim Brotherhood, which is currently banned in Egypt. The younger Qaradawi’s writings and public statements reflect his liberal stance on politics and social issues. Following the 2011 Egyptian revolution, he has faced increasing scrutiny and hostility from the state, culminating in a controversial in absentia conviction in 2017 based upon charges of misinformation. His recent detention in Lebanon has raised alarm among human rights advocates regarding the legalities and ethical considerations of potential extradition, especially to countries with egregious human rights records like the UAE and Egypt.
The request for intervention from Prime Minister Mikati underscores the family’s deep concern for Abdulrahman Al-Qaradawi’s safety. The potential for his extradition to nations known for human rights violations casts a shadow over Lebanon’s adherence to international legal obligations. As the situation develops, it remains crucial for advocates for human rights and legal experts to continue monitoring the actions of Lebanon’s authorities regarding this sensitive case.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
