Jubilation has erupted outside a court in Cairo, where former President Hosni Mubarak has been sentenced to life imprisonment for his role in the killing of 850 anti-government protesters during last year’s revolution.
This has been a long process. When Mubarak was indicted, he was wheeled into a cage on a hospital bed, which raised questions about the state of his health and the fairness of the trial. The prosecution has been pushing for the deposed dictator to receive the death sentence, but that has been resisted. Mubarak was found guilty of conspiring in killing, but not guilty of corruption.
It remains to be seen how this development will affect Egypt’s fragile political situation and the elections, a battle between a Mubarak acolyte and the Muslim Brotherhood. The army is a major presence on the streets today, revealing concerns about security. There have already been scuffles.
Also, it is likely that Mubarak’s demise will stiffen the Assad regime’s murderous resolve to cling to power.
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in