An Alexandria appeals court reduced the sentence of 14 female Islamist protesters previously slammed with over 11 years in jail to a suspended sentence of one year. Earlier in November, a criminal court sentenced the 14 female protesters to 11 years and one month in jail for destruction of private property, attacking security forces and stirring violence, and ordered that the seven female minors, also participating in these activities, be placed in a detention centre until they reach the age of majority. The appeals court has acquitted the seven minor girls, ages 15 to 17. The harsh jail sentences handed down to these female protesters, particularly the minors, sparked outrage in the country. In addition to the strongly worded statements released by human rights organizations and political groups, several protests were organized in solidarity with the young women. The 21 female protesters were arrested in late October during clashes with residents following a demonstration calling for the reinstatement of ousted Islamist president Mohamed Morsi. Authorities accused the demonstrators of inciting violence, blocking roads and damaging storefronts. Source : Ahram
