Popular Egyptian singer Mohamed Ramadan sentenced to one year in prison for slander

The 31-year-old Ramadan, who rose to prominence in recent years for his catchy songs including hit single Number 1, catapulted himself into a dispute with the pilot after posting a video of himself sitting in the cockpit during a flight, in an illegal move that violates Egypt's aviation laws.

The video triggered outrage with many calling for punitive action against both Ramadan and the pilot, who was in February 2019 suspended from his job.

Aboul Yosr quickly filed a lawsuit against the singer for what he claimed was insult and slander, demanding financial compensation for grounding his career.

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On Thursday, Egypt's Dokki Misdemeanor Court ruled the singer must pay LE10,000 bail and a LE20,000 fine, as well as serve one year in prison.

Ramadan's lawyer has lodged an appeal against the ruling and the case is expected to be reviewed within the next month.

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