The Arab Center for the Independence of the Judiciary and the Legal Profession (ACIJLP) expresses its profound satisfaction over the decision of the Egyptian Public prosecutor to refer the former Egyptian president to criminal court on charges of the predetermined killing of peaceful protesters on January 28, 2011 as well as attempted murder.

  ACIJLP believes that this important step has come too late, a matter which aroused many doubts regarding the possibility of referring the former president to trial.

  Moreover, ACIJLP points out that this trial and the subsequent series of trials of those involved in the past violations and of those accused and brought to trial must ensure fair trial particularly, the trial before criminal court and to ensure that all rights of defense are intact. In addition to, the right to appeal the sentences.

  ACIJLP is concerned over the fact that in order to emphasize such guarantees, trials should be conducted in accordance with specific purpose and motive represented in achieving Justice only, regardless of any other reasons such as motives for revenge, willingness to stop the Egyptian people to call for the reforms which lead to the 25^th January, Revolution, or to stop calling for the trial and prosecution of those involved.

    ACIJLP also points out that prosecuting those involved in the gross violations of Human Rights should not be limited to heads of the former regime alone or young executives but such trials must be conducted according to a strategy which adopted political, democratic and institutional reform. In addition to, fact finding, the compensation of the victims, perpetuating the memory of the victims. These mechanisms and transitional justice programs aim at the safe transition of the Egyptian society from tyrannical regime to democracy and human rights.

  ACIJLP pays tribute to this important step, the role of the Egyptian Public Prosecution Service and the Egyptian judiciary in general. ACIJLP also confirms that this step requires taking several steps, procedures and reforms at all levels in order to support the principle of the rule of law and equality before law and to strengthen impunity.