Arabic Network for Human Rights Information (ANHRI)

The IFEX-TMG is alarmed at attacks and prison sentences based on religious morality charges, as well as the use of force by police on demonstrators.

Mohamed al-Melify was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment and a fine of 18 thousand dollars on charges of spreading false news about about sectarian divisions in the country as well as libeling MP Ahmed Lari.

Ammar Ma’amari, a blogger known for his criticism of the Omani authorities, has been asked by the Jordanian intelligence service to pack his bags in anticipation of a deportation order.

The activists had expressed support for a group of former judges and had chanted slogans critical of the public prosecutor.

An open letter by 44 organisations calls Iraq’s proposed Information Technology Crimes law a threat to the fundamental freedoms necessary for the evolution of free speech and a vibrant press. The law will come to vote in the Iraqi Council of Representatives in April.

In one of his songs, Megaz El Haked criticised the political situation in the country, which authorities considered a defamatory statement against public officials.

The Dubai office of the National Democratic Institute and the Abu Dhabi office of The Konrad Adenauer Foundation were closed following government orders in what appears to be a growing crackdown on critical voices.

The eight activists were arrested while participating in a peaceful protest in Alexandria and were charged with attacking security forces, destruction of property and rioting.