Egyptian court fines journalist Lina Attalah and orders closure of Mada Masr

Court ruling and immediate consequences

The New Cairo Misdemeanours Court sentenced Lina Attalah, editor‑in‑chief of the independent outlet Mada Masr, to the maximum penalty of 3 million Egyptian pounds (approximately $53,500 or £40,100) for managing an unlicensed website. After the court’s decision, Attalah was detained for several hours before being released once the fine was paid.

Reactions from rights groups

Amnesty International described the verdict as “a crushing blow to press freedom” and noted that Attalah has endured “years of harassment and intimidation,” including six criminal investigations linked to Mada Masr’s reporting.

Broader context of media repression

The ruling comes weeks after six journalists from the fact‑checking platform Matsda2sh faced charges of belonging to the outlawed Muslim Brotherhood. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, Egypt currently holds 25 journalists in jail, making it one of the world’s top imprisoners of media workers.

Background on Mada Masr

Founded in 2013, Mada Masr has been described by the CPJ as a vital source of critical reporting that has long faced pressure from authorities. The outlet has repeatedly applied for an operating licence from the Supreme Media Regulatory Council since the 2018 media law, but its applications have been rejected or left unanswered.

Recent legal actions against Attalah

Last week, prosecutors summoned Attalah for questioning over accusations of publishing “false news” and operating a website without a licence.

Fine paid: 3 million Egyptian pounds.

Outcome: Attalah released; Mada Masr ordered to close.

Amnesty International’s stance: verdict is a severe setback for press freedom.

The case underscores the intensified crackdown on dissent that has intensified under President Abdul Fattah al‑Sisi since his 2013 rise to power, affecting journalists, activists, and academics alike.