The Egyptian Commission for Rights and Freedoms has called on Al-Azhar to withdraw its lawsuit against Islam Beheiry, so as to open the way for the discussion of religious issues without intimidation.
The Misdemeanor Court has sentenced Beheiry to five years in prison on charges of insulting religion.
The commission said in a statement that Al-Azhar has undermined the freedom of opinion and expression that is guaranteed by the Constitution, considering itself to be the guardian of thoughts and interpretations, thereby violating Article 7 of the Constitution.
The statement also said the institution has violated Article 65, which states that freedom of thought and opinion is guaranteed for everyone, as well as free expression by words, writing, photography or any other means.
The statement called on Al-Azhar to respond to the requests from political leaders to renew the religious discourse and support research and dialogue.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
