Egyptian Singer, Sherine Faces Trial for ‘Provocative’ Nile Remarks

Posted by African Examiner Entertainment News, Latest Headlines, North Africa Wednesday, November 15th, 2017

Photo: Sherine Abdel Wahab

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – A famous Egyptian singer faces trial for “spreading provocative publicity” after she suggested that drinking from the River Nile could make someone ill.

A lawsuit was filed after video emerged showing Sherine Abdel Wahab being asked at a concert last year to sing Mashrebtesh Men Nilha (Have You Drunk From The Nile?)

She responded by saying “drinking from the Nile will get me schistosomiasis” – a disease commonly known as bilharzia.

“Drink Evian, it’s better,” she added.

On Tuesday, the Egyptian Musicians Syndicate announced that it banned the 37 year old from performing over her “unjustified mockery of our dear Egypt”.

The union said it had opened an investigation and would not grant Abdel Wahab the necessary permits until she appeared before officials to answer questions.

Abdel Wahab later apologised for her “foolish joke” at the concert, which she said took place in the United Arab Emirates more than a year ago.

“My beloved country Egypt and sons of my country Egypt, I apologise to you with all my heart for any pain I may have caused you.” she added.

But on Wednesday, state newspaper al-Ahram reported that Abdel Wahab would face trial on 23 December at a Cairo misdemeanours court on the charge of “spreading provocative publicity”. A lawsuit accused her of insulting the Egyptian state and undermining efforts to produce tourism, it said.

State television would also no longer play her songs, according to al-Ahram./BBC