In the most recent Amnesty Urgent Action letter, the TRU Students’ Union wrote to Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Justice, Walid bin Mohammad AlSama’ani, urging the immediate and unconditional release of Dr Amr Abdelfattah. The letter also called for the protection of his right to a fair trial, regular access to his family and legal representation, and a prompt, independent, and effective investigation into all allegations of torture and other ill-treatment.
“Writing this letter is one way we can stand in solidarity with Dr Abdelfattah and his family,” said Payton Maffioli, TRUSU’s Indigenous Representative. “As students, we value the ability to share our beliefs and perspectives freely. We have a role to play in speaking up when others face punishment for exercising that same right.”
Dr Amr Abdelfattah is a French-Egyptian national, university professor, and father of three who has been detained in Saudi Arabia since June 2024. Authorities initially arrested him after he performed the Hajj pilgrimage with an invalid visa permit. During proceedings before the Specialized Criminal Court, he learned that he also faced charges related to his peaceful expression. In August 2026, his lawyer in France learned that he had received a prison sentence, but Saudi authorities had not disclosed its length or the basis for his conviction. According to Amnesty International, he has experienced repeated torture and other ill-treatment, restricted contact with his family, and inadequate access to legal representation and medical care.
His case takes place amid Saudi authorities’ ongoing crackdown on freedom of expression. Amnesty International has documented cases of both Saudi citizens and foreign nationals receiving lengthy prison sentences solely for peacefully expressing their views. The treatment of Dr Abdelfattah raises serious concerns about freedom of expression, the right to a fair trial, and protection from torture and other ill-treatment.
“Dr Abdelfattah is a father, husband, and professor who has spent more than two years separated from his family,” said Maffioli. “The reports of violence and inadequate medical care during his detention are deeply concerning. He deserves safety, the opportunity to reunite with his family, and respect for his fundamental human rights.”
It is our hope that Minister Walid bin Mohammad AlSama’ani will act to secure Dr Abdelfattah’s immediate and unconditional release, protect his rights pending release, and ensure that allegations of torture and other ill-treatment are independently investigated.
We await a response from the Minister on this urgent matter.
For more Information
The Amnesty Urgent Actions Program allows the Union to take action regarding international human rights injustices that matter to students. Click this link to see injustices we have addressed previously, and for further information about this issue or to see a copy of the letter, contact the Equity Coordinator below.