Broadcaster, once esteemed, sentenced to two years of forced labor due to charges of blasphemy
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a former broadcaster was recently sentenced to two years in prison with hard labor for blasphemy and undermining the Emirate. The court's decision was not influenced by the accused's denial of the charges.
The trial, presided over by Counselor Dr. Khaled Al-Omara, was based on the content of a tweet posted on the accused's personal account. The tweet contained insulting comments about the Divine Being and the Emirate.
The accused was also charged with misusing telecommunications services. The court found the accused guilty based on the evidence presented by the prosecution. The court's verdict was not affected by the accused's denial of the charges.
Blasphemy against all faiths has been illegal in the UAE since 2015. Penalties include a prison term of up to 5 years, fines ranging from 500,000 to 2 million dirhams, or both; expatriates insulting Islam may additionally face deportation. Laws also prohibit swearing on digital platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook, with fines and imprisonment applicable, and expats facing deportation for such offenses.
Insulting the ruling authority on social media is not detailed in the UAE's laws specifically, but it is generally embedded within broader cybercrime and public order laws that regulate speech against rulers and authorities, often carrying severe penalties. The UAE enforces strict rules against any online speech perceived as defaming or criticizing the government or ruling family, typically punishable by fines, imprisonment, and deportation for foreigners.
The UAE's legal system is designed to maintain order and respect for authority, and this case serves as a reminder of the consequences of violating these laws. The accused, despite his denial, was sentenced to two years in prison with hard labor.
The sentencing of the former broadcaster not only underscores the UAE's stance against blasphemy but also highlights the seriousness with which the country views general-news issues, such as undermining the Emirate. Additionally, the court's decision, influenced by the tweet's content, suggests a focus on crime-and-justice matters, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and adherence to the law in the UAE.
