Prominent political analyst, writer, and thinker Bassem Sabry died on Tuesday night. The 31 year old’s passing was mourned by friends and across Egypt’s polarised and wide range of politicians and public figures – a testament to his principled and astute political commentary in Egypt since 2011.
“Bassem Sabry was a founding member of Al-Dostour Party and a key contributor in writing its programme and many of its political and intellectual work,” said Al-Dostour in its statement mourning the loss. “He did not like the limelight and preferred to work in silence and privacy for Egypt, its people, and the goals of the 25 January Revolution,” added the party.
Many also expressed grief and sorrow across social media, including liberal politician Amr Hamzawy, Nobel Laureate Mohamed ElBaradei, member of the Salafi Al-Nour Party Nader Bakkar, and the Muslim Brotherhood.
“I ask all the youth of the revolution to pray for mercy and forgiveness for…a noble person we have lost and desperately need,” said ElBaradei on Twitter.
Funeral prayers for Sabry are scheduled to take place on Wednesday at Mostafa Mahmoud Mosque in Mohandessin following afternoon prayers. There will also be a memorial for him on Saturday afternoon at Hamdeya Shadileya Mosque in Mohandessin.
