The new committee formed to probe the status of civilians convicted by military courts since the 25 January Revolution held its first press conference Saturday morning.

Judge Ameen El-Mahdi, who heads the committee, said that the aim is to ensure that there are no Egyptians unfairly detained. He added that the committee would be named the "Committee for the Protection of the Personal Freedoms of Egyptian Citizens."

El-Mahdi added that with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan on 20 July, the families of detainees can expect to hear good news about their loved ones soon.

"We will have news to ease the hearts of every single family that has members who are detainees," El-Mahdi said.

The committee was formed by newly elected President Mohamed Morsi 4 July. It will also be tasked with investigating the status of all detainees and revolutionaries convicted by ordinary courts during the same period.

The committee will produce its first report within two weeks of commencing its work.

The new committee received some criticism for being composed of Supreme Council of the Armed Forces, interior ministry and general prosecution representatives.