Egypt’s Senate approves MP Ahmed Diab’s immunity lift request in footballer Ahmed Refaat’s death probe

CAIRO – 24 November 2024: The Parliament has approved lifting the parliamentary immunity of MP Ahmed Diab, the Deputy of the Youth and Sports Committee in the Senate and the President of the Egyptian Pro League (EPL), at his own request.

The purpose is to allow him to participate in the investigations being conducted by the Public Prosecution regarding the tragic passing of Modern Sport FC player Ahmed Rafaat last July.

During a plenary session on Sunday, Senate Speaker Abdel Wahab Abdel Razek praised Diab for his proactive step, highlighting that by requesting the removal of his immunity, Diab is setting a commendable precedent in seeking transparency and truth in the investigation into Refaat's death.

WHAT THE DECISION MEANS

Following this development, Diab will have the opportunity to provide his account to the Public Prosecution and address allegations concerning Refaat's departure to play in the UAE, allegedly without adhering to the relevant conscription regulations in Egypt.

Speaking to Al-Masry Al-Youm news website in response to the immunity removal, Diab refuted the accusations against him related to Refaat's passing as unfounded, expressing how these claims have weighed on him in recent months.

He stated, "I sought the lifting of parliamentary immunity to appear before the investigative authorities, and let everyone know the extent of the rumors I have been subjected to."

Diab also mentioned that he is yet to receive information about the date of the investigation, underscoring the importance of the process in clearing his name and putting an end to the unfounded speculations.

SUDDEN DEMISE

Refaat, a midfielder for Modern Sport Club, formerly known as Modern Future FC, tragically passed away at the age of 31 after collapsing during a match against Al Ittihad Alexandria Club in March, following a cardiac arrest.

His sudden demise deeply impacted countless individuals, particularly as he was able to leave the hospital for home treatment after a month of medical care, making a quick appearance with his team on June 24.

Many people believe that Refaat was there on that day to bid farewell to his colleagues as if he knew his time was near.

Just days before his passing, Refaat mentioned in a televised interview that he had recently faced challenging psychological circumstances related to his football career, suggesting that these factors may have contributed to his sudden illness.

While Refaat did not elaborate on these psychological pressures, he described them as "unbearable."

PRESIDENTIAL DIRECTIVES

In August, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi instructed the referral of the late player's case to the Public Prosecution to ensure accountability for any legal violations.

The president also directed coordination among relevant authorities to govern procedures for athletes traveling abroad during conscription and ensure facilitating and clarifying pertinent procedures with the aim of ensuring equal treatment in this regard.