Geneva - SAM organization for Rights and Liberties stated that the ruling issued by the Appeals Court in Aden, which acquitted journalist Ahmed Maher of the charges against him, represents a positive step toward achieving justice and embodying the principles of press freedom and freedom of expression. The organization stressed that the continued detention of journalist Maher following the acquittal ruling constitutes a blatant violation of his legal and human rights.  

SAM mentioned that the Appeals Court in Aden ruled today, Wednesday, December 25, 2024, to acquit journalist Ahmed Maher of all the charges against him and to release him, after spending three years in detention in prisons under the supervision of the Southern Transitional Council in Aden.  

The organization highlighted that the Specialized Criminal Court in Aden had previously issued a verdict on May 28, 2024, sentencing journalist Ahmed Maher to four years in prison on charges related to spreading false information and forging identification cards. This process, Sam argued, represented a deviation from justice and reflected the increasing security measures against journalists. Several legal violations were documented throughout the case, including repeated delays in trial sessions, depriving Maher of his right to defend himself, and preventing him from attending most of the court hearings. Additionally, it was reported that Ahmed Maher was subjected to torture during his detention and was forced to make confessions under duress, raising serious concerns about his legal rights.  

SAM called on the Public Prosecution to immediately and unconditionally release journalist Ahmed Maher and to ensure that he does not face any form of harassment or prosecution in the future, in addition to providing him with fair compensation. The organization emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law and adhering to international human rights standards, particularly those related to press freedom and the protection of journalists.