Morsi and 198 Islamist Leaders to Face Stern Military Tribunal in Egypt

Ekaterina Blinova — Mohamed Morsi, former president of Egypt, along with 198 Islamist leaders will face a military tribunal, charged with incitement to murder during August protests following the regime change in 2013.

The military trial has been scheduled for February 23, according to Egypt's official media sources.

The former president who was ousted by the army in July 2013 is currently facing four other trials, but this is the first time that Morsi will appear before the military court. Among other defendants, charged with disturbing public order and incitement to violence, is Mohamed Badie, the prominent leader of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Following the regime change in July 2013, deadly protests erupted in the canal city of Suez on August 14. The protest rallies coincided with the dismantling of pro-Morsi camps in Cairo by police, claiming the lives of hundreds during the fierce clashes. Although Morsi was detained by the military when the unrest flared up, the prosecution strongly suspects he encouraged the protests which resulted in the deaths of 31 over two days.

Hundreds of Muslim Brotherhood Islamist members have already faced mass trials and were sentenced to life imprisonment or capital punishment by the new leadership.

Morsi has already been charged with incitement to murder, alleged espionage and conspiracy against Hosni Mubarak, Egypt's longstanding leader, which resulted in a 2011 rebellion. It is expected that verdicts in two of the ongoing trials will be announced in April and May, 2015. At the same time, military tribunals, restricted in scope, are known for their swift and harsh verdicts.

In accordance with Egypt's constitution, the military can try civilians accused of violence against military targets, including public infrastructure, municipal facilities and bridges.