Skip to main content

Was the military funeral for Mubarak legal?

Egypt honored former President Mubarak with a military funeral, sparking controversy about the legality of such a funeral given that Mubarak was stripped of all military honors after his conviction.
RTS33OZ5.jpg

CAIRO — Controversy prevailed in Egypt following the official military funeral Feb. 26 for former President Hosni Mubarak, who ruled the country with an iron fist for nearly three decades.

He was ousted by the January 25 Revolution, when millions of Egyptians swarmed the streets to take down his regime. Yet, at his funeral, he was portrayed as a hero worthy of honor, as artillery fired 21 rounds to salute the deceased autocrat. A horse-drawn carriage transported his coffin, which was draped in the Egyptian flag. Amid a backdrop of military music, soldiers carried floral wreaths and the military decorations obtained by Mubarak throughout his military service.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.