Photo: CSW
Saeid Mansour Abdulraziq converted from Islam to Christianity in 2016, joining the Russian Orthodox Church. Immediately following his conversion, he began experiencing harassment and intimidation from his family members, the wider community, and local police. In an effort to find safety, Saeid sought asylum in Russia but was forced to return to Egypt in 2024.
An outspoken advocate for his Christian faith, Saeid was formally charged in July 2025. The accusations against him include participation in a terrorist organization, stirring unrest and spreading false information. (For more details on his arrest, go to this page.)
Religious freedom advocates contend that Saeid's arrest is solely the result of his conversion and Christian activities. While apostasy is not a criminal offence under Egyptian law, attempts to change one's religious identity on official documents have frequently led to national security charges.
While a court hearing was scheduled to take place on April 21st before Egypt's First Criminal Terrorism Circuit in Badr, the outcome is yet to be publicized. This court, which handles terrorism-related cases, has been widely criticized for its lack of transparency and frequent denial of defendants' basic legal protections. While awaiting his hearing, Saeid has reportedly suffered from physical abuse and a lack of access to many basic necessities.
- Please uphold Saeid in your prayers, asking God to provide him strength, comfort and peace, as well as the practical provisions that are needed to improve his physical health and well-being.
- Pray that Saeid will also receive capable and compassionate legal representation so that all the charges against him would be dismissed.
- Additionally, remember the many other Christian converts in Egypt who are facing hostility and uncertainty because of their faith, praying that they too would receive protection, courage, and the reassurance that they are not forgotten.
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