Marieha Hussain’s Acquittal Puts An End to a Politically Motivated Trial

London - The not guilty verdict of Marieha Hussain handed down by District Judge Vanessa Lloyd is a return to sanity, for what was always a politically motivated prosecution aimed at silencing criticism of politicians complicit in the Gaza genocide. 
 
Marieha's ordeal highlights the sinister methods the British state is using to silence and intimidate its own citizens' free speech, in order to protect a foreign nation’s genocidal war. Marieha endured months of harassment, including an abusive police interview, late-night police visits, and a smear campaign in the media that led to her losing her job and temporarily relocating her family for safety. 
 
While this is a positive outcome, Marieha's case remains a stark reminder of the ongoing injustices many face in speaking out against the UK’s complicity in the genocide in Gaza. This includes Professor Kehinde Andrews, activists Majid Freeman and Richard Barnard of Palestine Action, and journalists Sarah Wilkinson and Richard Medhurst. 
 
Naila Ahmed, Head of Campaigns at CAGE International said:
 
“It’s scandalous that a heavily pregnant mother ever needed to stand trial for expressing a political opinion. This prosecution has been vindictive from the very start. It will be a huge relief for Marieha and her family that this ordeal is now over and she can put all this behind her.
 
The state is increasingly exploring insidious ways to prosecute activists, especially those taking action for Palestine. We hope today's verdict puts a stop to these sorts of politicised prosecutions, and especially leads to the dropping of charges against the CAGE 6 who are accused of the exact same alleged offence. However we will not be silenced in exposing the war crimes and genocide being committed by the apartheid Israeli state- Palestine will be free”