Statements

Cairo, June 3, 2001

Saadawi Receives Official Court Notification

Dr. Nawal al-Saadawi has received official court notification demanding her appearance before the Cairo Personal Status Court on Monday June 18, 2001. A hearing is scheduled to look into the case filed by a lawyer accusing Dr. Saadawi of contempt for Islam, and asking for her separation from her husband, Dr. Sherif Hetata, on the grounds of apostasy.

The same plaintiff presented a complaint to the prosecutor-general on April 18, stating the same charges, and asking for the separation of the couple. The Prosecutor-general has rejected the complaint on May 23, after interrogating Dr. Saadawi.

The Committee reaffirms its determination to continue its solidarity efforts with Dr. Saadawi. The Committee also confirms that its effort will not stop at this particular case, but will be extended to target the Hisba law (law 3/1996), until it is completely repealed from Egyptian legislation.

Once again, the Committee calls for the continuation of solidarity with Nawal El-Saadawi until the case is dropped on June 18. The Committee also appeals for support for its ongoing campaign to repeal the Hisba law.

The Egyptian Committee for Solidarity with Nawal El-Saadawi
For more information contact:
gassur@excite.com
hosams@intouch.com
nawalsaadawi@yahoo.com
http://www.geocities.com/nawalsaadawi