Egyptian human rights lawyer and activist Mahienour El-Massry has been released on bail of EGP 50,000 (approximately USD 1,000) after being questioned for hours in connection with Case No. 6322 of 2025, registered with the Supreme State Security Prosecution. El-Massry, a prominent figure in Egypt’s human rights movement, now faces renewed allegations of spreading “false news, statements, and rumours” both domestically and internationally, charges that prosecutors claim could harm the public interest and undermine the prestige of the state.
Her release comes after an intense legal ordeal. On 17 August 2025, El-Massry learned through her family in Alexandria that she had been summoned as a defendant in a new case, her fourth since 2019. The following day, she appeared before the Prosecution, where she was interrogated for more than six hours. According to her defence team, neither El-Massry nor her lawyers were given access to the original complaints filed against her, their details, or the identities of the individuals behind them. Nevertheless, prosecutors presented her with several social media posts some of which were re-shares, including a political cartoon and posts criticising the authorities for denying a request to hold a demonstration in solidarity with Palestine.
The Prosecution stated that between 9 and 11 August, thirteen complaints were filed against El-Massry from citizens across different governorates. These complaints, unusually, were processed and investigated at extraordinary speed, within three days, leading directly to the summoning order issued on 14 August. Prosecutors further asserted that investigations confirmed the “veracity” of allegations against her, pointing to claims that she had used social media platforms to discredit state institutions and question the justice system. They also accused her of publishing “false news” regarding conditions inside Egypt’s correctional and rehabilitation centres.
This latest case underscores a pattern of repeated legal battles El-Massry has faced over the past six years. In 2019, she was arrested in connection with Case No. 488 of 2019 and remained in pre-trial detention before later being implicated in Case No. 855 of 2020. She was released in 2021 but was detained again in April 2024 alongside at least 18 others, mostly women’s rights activists, while attending a peaceful vigil outside the UN Women regional office. That demonstration expressed solidarity with women in Palestine and Sudan and called for an end to the ongoing war in Gaza. She was granted release in that matter as well, Case No. 1567 of 2024, on bail pending investigation.
For many observers, the new case against El-Massry highlights broader concerns about shrinking civic space, restrictions on freedom of expression, and the ongoing targeting of human rights defenders in Egypt. The speed with which complaints were filed and investigated has raised additional questions about due process, as her lawyers continue to demand access to case files and clarity on the accusations.
El-Massry, known for her vocal defence of political prisoners, women’s rights, and freedom of expression, has long been a symbol of resilience for activists in Egypt and beyond. While her bail secures temporary release, the pending investigation in Case No. 6322 of 2025 means her legal battle is far from over.
Her supporters argue that the accusations reflect a systematic effort to silence dissenting voices. International human rights organisations are closely monitoring developments, viewing El-Massry’s ordeal as part of a wider crackdown on activism in the country. With this being the fourth major case against her since 2019, questions about judicial independence, transparency, and the right to peaceful activism continue to dominate the conversation both within Egypt and abroad.
As El-Massry awaits the next steps in her case, her situation remains emblematic of the struggle faced by many Egyptian activists who challenge state narratives and advocate for justice. Her release on bail may provide temporary relief, but it also signals the continuation of a long, uncertain legal process that could shape the future of human rights advocacy in Egypt.
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