On January 18, 2025, journalist Ahmad Maher was released from Bir Ahmad prison in Aden, Yemen. His release followed the December 25, 2024, decision by the Aden-based Specialized Criminal Court of Appeal to acquit him. Maher had previously been sentenced on May 28, 2024, by the Specialized Criminal Court to four years in prison after a grossly unfair trial on charges of disseminating false and misleading news—a crime not recognized under international law—and forging identity documents.
During his detention of over two years, Maher endured numerous human rights violations, including torture and other ill-treatment. He was denied adequate legal defense, access to a lawyer of his choice, presumption of innocence, and protection against self-incrimination, making his imprisonment arbitrary under international standards.
In a social media post on January 18, Maher expressed gratitude to everyone who advocated for his release.
NO FURTHER ACTION IS REQUESTED. MANY THANKS TO ALL WHO SENT APPEALS.
