Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
In a dramatic and controversial broadcast, Ali Hussein Mahdy, a former opposition media figure, appeared live on social media to disclose what he described as explosive information about a foreign-funded media network allegedly tied to the Muslim Brotherhood and aimed at discrediting the Egyptian state. The appearance marked his first public statement since receiving a presidential pardon that cleared a previous life sentence in absentia.
Mahdy, who spent seven years in self-imposed exile in the United States, said he was part of a well-organized media operation led by Muslim Brotherhood figure Mohamed Hilal. According to Mahdy, the network’s primary goal was to undermine Egypt’s institutions through anti-state content disseminated via digital platforms and opposition media channels, with direct support from foreign intelligence agencies.
“I was part of a funding chain run by Mohamed Hilal,” Mahdy said. “We were producing hostile content, and it was all financed from abroad, with backing from intelligence agencies in the U.S., UK, and Turkey, aiming to destabilize Egypt.”
He claimed to have returned to Egypt carrying five USB drives containing what he called “damning evidence” of the Brotherhood’s media operations and their financial backers. Among the documents, he alleged, were detailed records of salaries paid to prominent opposition media figures. Mahdy stated he received $10,000 per month for his appearances, while other figures such as Moataz Matar received $15,000, Mohamed Nasser $10,000, and Abdullah El-Sherif $5,000.
Beyond the financial disclosures, Mahdy accused Mohamed Nasser of being involved in what he described as “immoral relationships” with at least 15 women, claiming he possessed documented proof of personal misconduct that led to emotional and social harm for several victims.
His reappearance in Egypt follows a turbulent personal chapter. Mahdy said he was dismissed from his university in the U.S. and lost his job after the October 7 events, prompting him to seek legal counsel and eventually apply for a presidential pardon. That pardon was officially published in Egypt’s state gazette, clearing the way for his return.
“From the gardens of Florida to the gardens of Om El Donia (Mother of the World), I’m the happiest man alive,” Mahdy said emotionally in his video. “The same people we used to attack from abroad were the ones who stood by me when I needed help. History will record this.”
He concluded the broadcast by thanking President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for granting him clemency and hinted at further revelations to come. “Wait for me,” he said. “I have more surprises to share about what really happened.”
The Egyptian government has not officially commented on Mahdy’s statements. However, his case is already stirring public discourse, with supporters hailing his return as a victory for national reconciliation, while critics question the motivations behind his abrupt turn and public disclosures.
