Cambridge, United Kingdom – A vigil was held to honor the memory of Giulio Regeni, an Italian PhD student who was abducted and murdered in Egypt eight years ago. Regeni’s tragic fate, which involved abduction off the streets of Cairo and torture to death, has sparked an ongoing effort for justice, with many suspecting the Egyptian National Security Forces to be behind the heinous crime.
The Justice for Giulio campaign, which seeks accountability for Regeni’s murder, brought together a crowd of around thirty students, academics, and local activists, including local MP Daniel Zeichner, outside St Mary’s Church. The event, organized by Cambridge University Amnesty, also featured moving speeches and readings from a book written by Regeni’s parents about their pursuit of justice.
Taking a moment to remember Regeni’s final text message, sent at 6:41 pm, the vigil was a somber occasion that highlighted the pressing need for resolution in the case. Regeni’s body was found on February 3, 2016, confirming that he had been subjected to nine days of torture before his death. The Egyptian secret services are widely suspected to be the perpetrators, with four senior members of the Egyptian police set to stand trial in Rome.
Dr. Glen Ranwala, who taught Regeni, remembered him as a student brimming with potential and ideas. Daniel Zeichner MP, in attendance at the vigil, praised Cambridge University Amnesty for their efforts and emphasized the widespread belief that the security forces were involved in Regeni’s tragic fate. The Egyptian government has continually denied any involvement, but the gathering at St Mary’s Church was a testament to the enduring impact of Regeni’s story and the determination to seek justice.
Regeni’s legacy continues to be remembered and honored, not only in Cambridge but also at his former college, Girton, where a memorial was held earlier in the day. The ongoing pursuit of justice for his untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the challenges of seeking accountability for crimes committed against individuals who dare to question oppressive regimes. As the fight for justice continues, the memory of Giulio Regeni lives on as a symbol of resilience and the unwavering pursuit of truth and accountability.