A Ramadan Without Bars | Journalist Sayed Saber Detained Over a “Post”
As the holy month of Ramadan—a time symbolizing justice and compassion—begins, the Egyptian Center for Economic and Social Rights renews its calls for the immediate release of individuals detained in connection with opinion-related cases, whether in pretrial detention or serving sentences.
In this context, the Center has launched the “A Ramadan Without Bars” campaign, featuring a series of articles highlighting cases of individuals imprisoned for expressing their opinions. The campaign aims to advocate for their release and for the freedom of all those facing similar charges.
On February 21, 2025, journalist and satirist Sayed Saber was absent from his family’s traditional birthday celebration. This time, however, there was no celebration at all—his absence was involuntary, as he remained deprived of his liberty. That day, his laughter and storytelling were missing, replaced by a somber conversation among family members who longed for his release.
Saber, widely recognized for his sharp and thought-provoking writings, was arrested by security forces at his home on the evening of November 27, 2024. He was taken to an undisclosed location before being presented before the prosecution for questioning—reportedly due to a Facebook post.
The Supreme State Security Prosecution subsequently charged him with joining a terrorist organization, disseminating false news, and misusing social media. On March 2, 2025, his detention was renewed for the seventh time, extending his custody for another 15 days—despite his deteriorating health. Saber has undergone two heart surgeries and suffers from chronic medical conditions.
He attended his detention renewal hearing via video conference from the Tenth of Ramadan Prison before the Cairo New Primary Court, with his legal defense team present. Among them was a lawyer from the Egyptian Center, who formally requested his release and access to necessary medical care.
Sayed Saber holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and another in Journalism and Media from Cairo University. As a satirical journalist, he has contributed to several Egyptian and Arab publications and has authored multiple short story collections, including Ghalia, Boo Boo, The Pasta Farm, and Souti and the General, as well as a book compiling his essays titled No Nonsense.
Since his arrest, his family has endured a prolonged and painful wait, hoping for his release at every court session. Yet, time continues to pass, and significant occasions go by without him. As Ramadan begins, they remain hopeful that this year will mark his return.
On this occasion, renewed calls emerge for the immediate release of Sayed Saber and all individuals imprisoned for expressing their opinions so they may reunite with their families and reclaim their fundamental right to freedom. No one should spend Ramadan behind bars.
