URGENT UPDATE: Usama Ghanem, a 22-year-old Egyptian student at King’s College London, faces imminent deportation to Egypt after participating in pro-Palestinian protests. Ghanem’s visa was revoked just days ago, and he could be forced to leave the UK by January 27, 2024.
Ghanem, who fled to the UK in 2022 to escape political persecution, is now at risk of returning to a country where he alleges he was tortured for opposing the regime. He describes this situation as “Egypt, take two,” highlighting the oppressive environment he feels he is encountering again.
The university suspended Ghanem after he was involved in protests advocating for Palestinian rights, following the escalation of violence in Gaza. In a letter from KCL, authorities cited allegations of non-academic misconduct, including “offensive or abusive behaviour” and “operational obstruction.” This decision took effect on November 28, with the UK Home Office issuing a formal notice of his visa cancellation.
Ghanem’s legal team reports that he has no lawful immigration status in a third country. His fears of imprisonment upon returning to Egypt are compounded by his past experiences, including a traumatic incident in 2020 when security forces allegedly detained and tortured him and his family. He states, “I’ve seen what happens when people don’t challenge authority.”
Support for Ghanem is growing, with over 40 academics from KCL’s Race Research Network condemning the university’s actions as “institutionally racist.” They have called for the suspension to be reversed, warning that Ghanem’s life is at risk should he be deported.
KCL has stated that students are not disciplined for lawful affiliations, including pro-Palestinian views. However, the university’s disciplinary actions against Ghanem and others involved in similar protests have raised alarms about freedom of speech on campus.
Ghanem’s situation reflects a broader crackdown on political expression in UK universities, particularly regarding Palestinian solidarity. Critics argue that this reflects a troubling trend of targeting students based on their activism.
As international tensions rise, the impact of Ghanem’s potential deportation could resonate beyond his personal plight, symbolizing the dangers faced by those challenging authority and advocating for human rights.
Next steps: Ghanem’s legal team is preparing to appeal the university’s decision, hoping to delay his deportation. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as advocacy efforts intensify.
This case serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom of expression and the implications of political activism in both Egypt and abroad.
