CAIRO: Egyptian police yesterday arrested five Islamist leaders who back Mohamed Mursi, two days ahead of protests their alliance has called to mark the first anniversary of his ouster, officials said.
Since the military deposed Mursi last July 3, the authorities have waged a brutal crackdown on his supporters that has seen more than 1,400 people killed in street clashes and over 15,000 jailed.
Magdy Hussein, a leader of the Anti-Coup Alliance that has spearheaded protests demanding Mursi’s reinstatement, was arrested at dawn in his house, the security officials said.
He faces charges of inciting violence and threatening national security and stability.
Also detained was Nasr Abdel Salam, head of the Building and Development party, the political arm of Gamaa Islamiya, a former militant group that has since renounced violence.
Two other leaders of the party, which is part of the Anti-Coup Alliance, were also arrested.
Police also arrested Hossam Khalaf, a leader of the moderate Islamist party Wassat. Khalaf, whose party is also part of the pro-Mursi alliance, was accused of inciting violence.
The Anti-Coup Alliance condemned the arrests as “kidnappings” and renewed its call for pro-Mursi protests during a “day of rage” tomorrow, the anniversary of his removal from office.
AFP
