steadily deteriorating health condition, which may threaten his very life. We also renew our appeal on Your Excellency’s Government and the concerned authorities to effectively investigate and assess the circumstances surrounding the arrest and deprivation of liberty of Dr. Aboulfotouh, who appears to be held in pre-trial detention without access to an effective defense, on the basis of vague and broad allegations that appear to be aimed at criminalizing his political views and engagement. If it is found that Dr. Aboulfotouh is being held arbitrarily or in a manner inconsistent with international human rights standards binding Egypt, he should be released immediately. In connection with the above alleged facts and concerns, please refer to the Annex on Reference to international human rights law attached to this letter which cites international human rights instruments and standards relevant to these allegations. We are issuing this appeal in order to safeguard the rights of Dr. Aboulfotouh from irreparable harm and without prejudicing any eventual legal determination. As it is our responsibility, under the mandates provided to us by the Human Rights Council, to seek to clarify all cases brought to our attention, we would be grateful for your observations on the following matters: 1. Please provide any additional information and any comment you may have on the above-mentioned allegations. 2. We would be grateful for a prompt, updated and detailed information on the current state of Dr. Aboulfotouh's physical and mental health and integrity, and about the measures that have been taken or are being taken in light of his alleged deteriorating health, particularly his recent heart attacks, as part of the effort and duty of the penitentiary and medical authorities to protect his right to health and life and preserve his safety and well-being. 3. Please provide details on the reasons why the request of persons associated with Dr. Aboulfotouh to transfer him to a private hospital, where he would be provided with the necessary medical care, and to cover the expenses for such care, have been turned down. 4. Please provide the factual and legal basis for the arrest, detention and prosecution of Dr. Aboulfotouh. Please explain how Dr. Aboulfotouh's arrest and current pre-trial detention are in compliance with Egypt's international human rights obligations, in particular the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment. Please also explain how these measures are consistent with Dr. Aboulfotouh's right to liberty and security, the right to due process and a fair trial, and the right to freedom of opinion and expression. 5