Mother of Jailed Activist Vows to Continue Hunger Strike Despite Grave Risks

In a harrowing display of maternal devotion, Laila Soueif, the mother of imprisoned British-Egyptian activist Alaa Abdel Fattah, is resolute in her hunger strike, determined to draw attention to her son’s plight despite being hospitalized and at severe risk of death.

Laila Soueif, a 69-year-old maths professor, has been on a hunger strike since September 2024, following the continuation of her son’s incarceration as he faces a five-year sentence for exercising his right to free speech in Egypt. Although she has been warned by doctors about the dangers of her long-term refusal of food, her resolve remains unshaken, as she engages in an act she believes is necessary for Alaa’s freedom.

Speaking from St Thomas’ hospital in London, Soueif said, “I want to live, but I am prepared to die if that’s what it takes to free Alaa.” Her son, a dual British-Egyptian national, has been a prominent figure in pro-democracy movements in Egypt and has been behind bars since 2014. His latest conviction came after a Facebook post concerning the torture of another prisoner.

Fearing that her son is being used as a political pawn, Laila has insisted that he should have been released in September 2024, given the unjust nature of his sentence. Having initially consumed minimal calories during her hunger strike, she resumed a full hunger strike on May 20 after she felt no substantial progress had been made in getting Alaa released.

Now, family members describe her alarming health trajectory, with low glucose levels leaving her barely conscious. Sanaa Seif, her daughter, expressed deep concern, remarking on her mother’s awareness that her time may be limited, as she prepares for her last farewells.

The United Nations has said Alaa was arrested for exercising freedom of expression, calling for his immediate release. However, diplomatic ties present a challenging backdrop, as Egypt remains a significant ally of the UK. Despite appeals from British officials and family members, access to Alaa has been denied, drawing frustration and anger from his family.

Sanaa has openly criticized the UK government for its lackadaisical approach and has expressed pride in her mother’s unwavering commitment, which has brought to light the plight of countless political prisoners in Egypt. She believes that the Free Alaa campaign must gain momentum to ensure not only her brother’s freedom but also to advocate for the rights of other detainees facing similar fates.

The UK’s Foreign Office maintains that it remains committed to securing Alaa's release, with continued communications maintained at high levels of government in Egypt. However, as Laila Soueif’s health declines, her powerful message rings loud: “Use my death as leverage to get Alaa out,” she states. "Don’t let my death be in vain."