Egyptian-British activist Alaa Abdel Fattah reunites with family after Sisi’s long-awaited pardon sparks joy and global relief. Prominent Egyptian-British human rights defender Alaa Abdel Fattah was released from prison after years behind bars and reunited with his family in an emotional celebration following a long-awaited pardon by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Abdel Fattah had been held at Wadi al-Natrun prison, roughly 80 kilometres (50 miles) from Cairo. ALSO READ: Egypt unveils new archaeological wonders in LuxorFollowing the announcement of Sisi’s pardon on Monday, Abdel Fattah’s family had rushed there, only to discover he was already home. Abdel Fattah was granted British citizenship in 2022 while he was behind bars through his mother.