ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates’ state security court yesterday began the trial of 30 Emiratis and Egyptians charged with setting up an illegal branch of the Muslim Brotherhood.
The conservative monarchies of the Gulf have long viewed the Brotherhood — a grass-roots movement founded in Egypt more than 80 years ago — as a threat because of its political activism and advocacy for Islamic governance. A total of 24 defendants attended the hearing in Abu Dhabi, along with family members, civil society representatives and the media, the Wam state news agency reported.
The so-called “Muslim Brotherhood cell” comprises 10 Emiratis and 20 Egyptians, including six who remain at large.
The judge appointed a three-member medical committee to perform check-ups on some defendants before adjourning the proceedings until November 12 to allow more time for lawyers to call in witnesses.
AFP
