CAIRO: Egypt's fundamental Islamic group Gama'a Islamiya denounced the airing of ousted President Hosni Mubarak's trial, which began on Wednesday morning at the Police Academy in New Cairo. The group's spokesman Assem Abdel Maged said on Monday that the group does not oppose the trial, yet they oppose airing it on television as it could draw “undesired results and dividends.” Abdel Maged said that the Egyptian people might feel sympathy towards Mubarak “seeing him in the cage” which could result in steps back for the revolution. He added that in the US cameras are not allowed in courts for security reasons and “we should look at that.” The Islamic group, which renounced violence in the early 200s after a violent campaign against the government, was cracked down upon by Mubarak's regime for their involvement in militant attacks on tourists and governmental building during the late 1980s and 1990s. The trial that sees Mubarak with his two sons Alaa and Gamal along with former Minister of Interior Habib al-Adly and six of his aides has already sparked contention among supporters. At least 10 people were injured in early Wednesday morning clashes between opposing groups at the Police Academy where the trial is taking place. Mubarak is facing corruption charges and ordering the killing of protesters during the 18 days of protests that led to his removal. At least 840 people were killed in the 18 days. Security measures are heightened at the academy and a security source said 2,000 officers will be securing the building and the courtroom. BM
