Letter of Solidarity with Nawal El Saadawi

Once again the freedom of creative writers faces attacks from Al Azhar the highest religious authority in Egypt.

On the 24 May 2004 the Centre for Islamic Research the Think Tank of Al Azhar decided to ban Nawal El Saadawi`s well know novel The Fall of the Imam published in Arabic seventeen years ago , later translated into fourteen languages before a second Arabic edition appeared two years ago . The reason given for this decision was that the novel was inimical to the principles of Islam.
Intellectuals and writers in Egypt immediately launched a campaign of protests against a decision which not only endangers whatever freedom of expression they still enjoy but also constitutes a threat to their safety and lives. The accusation of apostasy has already claimed several victims in Egyptian society.

We therefore demand that Al Azhar withdraw its decision to ban the Fall of the Imam as well as the dangerous accusations leveled against Nawal El Saadawi well known for her literary achievements and for her courageous stand in defence of justice, freedom and peace. We also consider that the intervention of Al Azhar in matters related to creative writing and freedom of thought should cease.