Tributes
Fathi Naguib (1938-2003)
A learned man of noble character
Those of us who knew Mohamed Fathi Naguib, the father, brother, friend, scholar and teacher, were enriched by his presence in our lives. It is rare these days that such noble character and extensive learning are found together in one human being, as they were in Egypt's departed chief justice. The gentleness of his character, the probity of his words, his modesty, kind nature and compassion were all manifest to those who knew him, even if only for a very short time.He was a charismatic man who had the ability to reach out to those around him. People who met him felt his interest immediately, and his presence had a soothing effect on all those who came into contact with him.
It was a mark of his strength of character that he managed not to offend anyone -- in either word or deed -- and he always respected the opinions of others. For him, freedom of expression was a marker of a civilised society and the basis upon which respect for mankind and the progress of peoples is founded.
Chief Justice Mohamed Fathi Naguib's knowledge extended far beyond the legal and judicial realms to encompass a wide range of disciplines in the arts and sciences. His intellectual orientation first became evident at an early age, and it was by reading throughout his life that he developed the ideas and principles he conveyed to us.
Though he was open to foreign cultures, his sense of pride, appreciation, and faith in his country and his Egyptian roots was very strong. His concern for his homeland and the challenges it faced was always his top priority.
Naguib's role in the Taba arbitration and his support for women's rights, which is evident in many pieces of legislation, were among his greatest achievements in the service of the nation. He pioneered the appointment of women to the judiciary, and played a leadership role in the modernisation of legislation during the last two decades, leaving his imprint on legislation for the political, economic and social spheres.
He also made a mark in the international arena through contributing to the development of numerous bilateral and multilateral agreements serving the interests of his country. Similarly, while representing Egypt at international gatherings and conferences, Naguib conveyed an enlightened image of his country.
He brought an extra measure of dignity and respect to the judicial appointments he held during his 45 years of service, rising to occupy the post of chief justice of the Supreme Constitutional Court following his presidency of the Court of Cassation and the Supreme Judicial Council.
And though our eminent teacher has left us for a better home, his example and teachings shall remain alive for us and he will continue to exist with us. I, like many others, still feel there was so much left to learn from him. How I wish I had known him before the time I did, and that God had prolonged his life. But it was the will of God, which we have to respect and accept. I convey my most sincere condolences to his family, to those who loved him and to our country. "To God we belong, and to Him is our return."
Adel Omar Sharif
Deputy chief justice of the Supreme Court.
Hosny Guindy (1940-2003)
Gift of truth
I have just received the news of Hosny Guindy's passing with deep sadness and emotion. As we are parting with our respected senior colleague and friend Hosny Guindy, I wish to express to his family and all the staff of Al- Ahram Weekly my heartfelt condolences, praying the Lord to receive him in His mercy, and to soothe the hearts of all who cherished and love him.Few through the turmoil and vagaries of present times, particularly so in the media, have been able to leave as their life's achievement an institution of creativity and exceptional quality as he has done. Thanks to his leadership and the dedication of all concerned, Al-Ahram Weekly stands today at the forefront of our Egyptian press, and is recognised in the world as a major expression of the vitality and civility of Egypt, our beloved Motherland.
Let us therefore join hands to maintain and develop Hosny Guindy's life achievement, his gift in truth to Egypt and all concerned with reason, amity and peace.
Anouar Abdel-Malek
Political writer and columnist with Al-Ahram.
Unwavering pursuit of excellence
I was fortunate enough to have met Hosny Guindy since the start of what one can call his lifelong involvement in Al-Ahram Weekly, 13 years ago. And ever since a strong bond of admiration and affection linked me to this frail figure and yet so strong personality -- as respected for his off-work gentleness as for his masterful journalistic skill, Hosny was respected also for his ethics and integrity as for his leadership of Al-Ahram Weekly.Because of these stellar qualities and his unwavering pursuit of excellence, he managed to render the Weekly, the best, most professional and truthful newspaper and made us, as opinion writers, proud to have an article published in its pages. It was also so refreshing for me to find many of my own brilliant students pursuing their career under his mentorship and embracing his devotion to work.
Hosny lost a valiant battle with his illness but the legacy he has left will live on. To his beloved wife Moushira and to Yasmeen, the daughter who made him so proud, I offer my deepest condolences.
Mona Makram Ebeid
Professor of political science at AUC and former member of parliament.
Al-Ahram Weekly Online : 28 August - 3 September 2003 (Issue No. 653)
Located at: http://weekly.ahram.org.eg/2003/653/op44.htm