'Gay' trial reopens in Egypt

Cairo - A controversial trial resumed yesterday of 52 suspected homosexual men accused of sexual immorality and forming a group…

Cairo - A controversial trial resumed yesterday of 52 suspected homosexual men accused of sexual immorality and forming a group that propagated extremist ideas and denigrated Islam.

The case has prompted sharp criticism from international rights groups, which say the men are being tried for their possible sexual orientation and for exercising freedom of speech and association.

Many of the defendants cried as they protested their innocence to the judge. Outside the courtroom, the defendants' families attacked journalists covering the case, accusing them of bringing shame to their loved ones.

The court had barred relatives from the proceedings after they attacked photographers at the opening session on July 18th, saying the press had defamed the men.