Int'l journalists call for release of jailed Egyptian photographer at major press event

Egyptian photojournalist Mahmoud Abou Zeid, known as Shawkan was yesterday honored by the Committee to Protect Journalists during its annual International Press Freedom Awards. 

Zeid received an award in absentia during the ceremony. 

Zeid was first jailed in Aug 2013 on charges of weapons possession, illegal assembly, murder and attempted murder. 

The charges against Zeid was one of hundreds that came about following clashes between Egyptian security forces and supporters of ousted President Mohamed Morsi. 

Although the Egyptian criminal code stipulates a maximum of two-years for individuals jailed without a trial, Zeid's case has been repeatedly delayed. 

"Photography is not just a hobby for me," the journalist wrote in a letter in 2015. 

"It is an actual way of life. It's not just how you hold a camera and snap a picture. It's the way that you see life and everything around you. ... My passion is photography, but I am paying the price for my passion with my life. Without it, a part of me is missing."

Journalists from India, El Salvador and Turkey were also honored during the ceremony. 

In a recent court hearing, Shawkan told the judge that he is a photojournalists with no political affiliations. He also mentioned that his health is deteriorating, according to Daily News Egypt.