Egypt's judges rebuff criticism of death sentences

CAIRO (AP) — Egypt’s Justice Minister on Wednesday rebuffed international criticism of a mass trial this week in which some 680 defendants were sentenced to death, saying the judiciary is not a tool of executive authority and that rulings can be overturned upon appeal.

The death sentences on Monday sparked an international outcry. While they were not final and are very likely to be overturned on appeal, the judge was criticized for not giving enough time for defendants and lawyers to present their case and after holding only one session last month.