#Trending: Morsi is 'not alone'

#Trending: Morsi is 'not alone'
Blog: An irregular space to trace trending topics on social media; what Arabs are talking about online.
2 min read
18 May, 2015
A wave of discontent stormed social media in the Middle East - and much of the world - after Mohamed Morsi was sentenced to death.

The democratically elected former Egyptian president was accused of being involved in a mass prison break, back in 2011. The ruling against Morsi has sparked criticism of the Egyptian judicial system on social media and beyond.

Amnesty International released a statement following the ruling, calling for a re-trial.  

"This verdict shatters any remaining illusion of independence and impartiality in Egypt’s criminal justice system," said Hassiba Hadj Sahraoui, Amnesty's deputy Middle East and North Africa director.
Mohamed Naser's video has gone viral [YouTube]


A video produced by Egyptian TV presenter Mohamed Naser describing the verdict as "the night justice wept" was widely circulated.

An overwhelming majority of tweets appeared to support Morsi.

The hashtag "Morsi you are not alone" was most popular in voicing support for the ousted leader.

 
Other posts highlighted users' concerns over the status of democracy in Egypt, and what has been perceived to be another form oppression practiced by President Abd al-Fattah al-Sisi, who led a coup against Morsi in June 2013.

 

Caption: "Democracy in Egypt today"

Despite the uproar, a few showcased their approval of the ruling, which called Morsi a dictator.

 

In Turkey, thousands took to the streets yesterday to show their disapproval at the verdict against the former president, and sending yet a message of support to Morsi's supporters in Egypt.



Do you think Morsi deserves the death penalty? Let us know what you think. Comment below, tweet us @alaraby_en or come and find us on Facebook.