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The Arab Network for Human Rights Information (ANHRI) condemned the banning of TV presenter Mahmoud Saad on Saturday from presenting his talk show “Akher Al-Nahar” on private channel, Al-Nahar TV.
Al-Nahar TV released a statement Sunday, saying it will not allow any violations against the armed forces in the name of the freedom of speech. The channel also argued that freedom of speech does not justify the mockery of the Egyptian army or people’s morale.
Accordingly, the channel has decided to make “substantial changes” to the TV programmes that it airs. It will prohibit the appearance of certain guests who promote “impertinent concepts” aiming to weaken the morale of the Egyptian army instead of grieving the deaths of Egyptian soldiers in North Sinai.
The programme’s editor-in-chief, Ahmed Harbia, said Saad was banned from Saturday’s episode only. He added that Saad was not prevented from appearing on TV, and that there are negotiations going between the channel’s administration and Saad.
The ANHRI statement however read that banning a prominent media figure known for his impartiality is “unacceptable”.
ANHRI calls on the officials at Al-Nahar TV to reverse the decision on Saad and to review their orientation, bearing in mind the basic aim and message of the press and media.
