VOICED: Egyptian writer continues work in spite of threats

Al Chimmney, a renowned Egyptian writer, faces criticism and threats due to his secular writings, despite winning the State Merit award. Supported by family and friends, he plans to fight for his rights. Meanwhile, opposition groups aim to revoke his award, viewing it as a misuse of state funds. Some see this as part of a broader religious strategy to suppress liberal voices. Chimmney remains determined to continue his literary work.

What recent recognition did Al Chimmney receive for his work?

• The Booker Prize

• The Pulitzer Prize

• The State Merit award in Social Sciences

• The Nobel Prize in Literature

What is the main reason some Egyptians want Al Chimmney's award revoked?

• They argue the state should not fund his secular views.

• They claim he has not published any new work recently.

• They believe his writings are plagiarized.

• They think he has been too critical of the government.

How have Al Chimmney's family and friends responded to the criticism he faces?

• They have encouraged him to move abroad.

• They have distanced themselves from him.

• They have created a support group to defend his rights.

• They have advised him to stop writing.

What do some believe is the broader aim of the controversy surrounding Al Chimmney?

• To promote secularism in Egyptian society.

• To increase the cash prize for literary awards.

• To control cultural and academic life by religious figures.

• To encourage more writers to publish controversial works.

What is Al Chimmney's plan for the future despite the ongoing controversy?

• To retire from writing and focus on teaching.

• To publish his next book by the end of the summer.

• To move to another country for safety.

• To start a political career.