Shas spiritual leader says ousted Egyptian president "brought honor to Egypt," hopes judges will find him innocent.
By JPOST.COM STAFF, REUTERSRabbi Ovadia Yosef 311(photo credit: Courtesy)
Shas spiritual leader Rabbi Ovadia Yosef defended ousted Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak in his weekly address, Army Radio reported Sunday morning.The former leader was charged with the killing of protesters and abuse of power. His trial resumed three weeks ago after a delay of almost two months.RELATED:Analysis: Mubarak’s trial is about the future of EgyptOvadia Yosef 'blesses' peace partners in letter
"Mubarak brought honor to Egypt," Ovadia said, adding that he prays god will impart the judges with the wisdom to find him innocent.Mubarak, his two sons, the former interior minister and senior police officers face a range of charges including involvement in the deaths of hundreds of protesters and corruption during his three decades in office.Earlier this month, the prosecution in the case against Mubarak demanded the death sentence for the former Egyptian president and other defendants."The prosecution demands the maximum penalty against Mubarak and the rest of the accused which is death by hanging," Mustafa Khater, a member of the prosecution team said during a court session.
