Critics of Egypt’s new anti-terrorism law, fear it will be used to crush dissent and stifle press freedom.

The addition to the law books, introduced by decree by President al-Sisi, is intended to counter a two-year Islamist insurgency.

The law imposes the death penalty for anyone founding a group deemed by the government to be a “terrorist entity”.

Financing “terrorist groups” brings a life sentence, which in Egypt means 25 years. Inciting violence will lead to 5-7 years in jail.

The new law also creates fast-track courts to try suspected militants, without specifying whether trials will be open or closed to the public.

It also protects law enforcers such as the military and the police from legal consequences if they use force.

Among other measures, journalists face large fines if they contradict official versions of terrorist attacks.

The original version prompted an outcry after stipulating imprisonment.

“The journalists’ criticisms are legitimate, but on the other h