Amnesty International said today that the trial of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak must be “fair, transparent and reveal the full truth about unlawful killings of anti-government protesters during this year's mass protests.” Mubarak's trial is set to begin tomorrow. He faces charges of financial corruption and murdering demonstrators during the 18-day uprising that toppled him from power earlier this year. Mubarak's two sons, former Interior Minister Habib al-Adly, six of al-Adly's assistants, and fugitive businessman Hussein Salem (who will be tried in absentia) are also defendants in the case. If convicted, they could face the death penalty. “This trial presents a historic opportunity for Egypt to hold a former leader and his inner circle to account for crimes committed during their rule,” said Malcolm Smart, Amnesty International's Director for the Middle East and North Africa. “But if the trial is going to be a meaningful break with Egypt's record of impunity, it must be both fair and transparent – justice demands no less,” he added. Amnesty welcomed the judge's decision to allow live TV broadcasting of the trial, but also “urged the court to ensure that those attempting to attend the hearings are not mistreated.” Some fear violence if the families of the revolution's martyrs are turned away, as has happened at other trials of people accused of being involved in killing demonstrators during the revolution. To maintain order and security at the court, those wishing to attend the trial in person are required to submit applications in advance, including lawyers, media and the families of victims. “The authorities must ensure that the security forces do not resort to excessive force to deny access to the trial proceedings,” said Smart.
