Politics · Sri Lanka Bureau
Egyptian court fines journalist, orders closure of independent news site
An Egyptian court has convicted the editor-in-chief of independent news outlet Mada Masr of operating an unlicensed website and ordered its closure. The journalist was detained for several hours before her release following payment of a substantial fine.
LSN Sri Lanka ·
Lina Attalah, editor-in-chief of Mada Masr, was held in custody after a court ruling that found her guilty of managing an unlicensed news website, according to statements from her legal team. The court imposed a fine of 3 million Egyptian pounds, equivalent to approximately $53,500, which the outlet paid to secure her release.
The conviction and closure order represent a significant development for Mada Masr, which has established itself as one of Egypt's prominent independent news sources. The legal action against the publication comes amid broader concerns about press freedom and media regulation in the country.
Attalah's detention was brief, with her release occurring once the financial penalty was settled. The case raises questions about licensing requirements for digital news outlets in Egypt and the regulatory framework governing independent media operations.
Mada Masr has previously faced scrutiny from authorities, reflecting ongoing tensions between independent journalism and state oversight in Egypt. The outlet's status following the court order remains uncertain as legal proceedings continue.