CAIRO: Egyptian satirist Bassem Youssef says his popular TV show, which sharply mocked the country’s politicians, is ending because the climate in Egypt is “not suitable” for satire.

Youssef told a press conference Monday that MBC-Misr TV, which had been carrying his show, had come under pressure to halt it, though he would not say from whom. He said he decided to stop the show.

“The present climate in Egypt is not suitable for a political satire program,” he said. “I’m tired of struggling and worrying about my safety and that of my family.”

Youssef had mocked the cult like adulation of El-Sissi’s supporters, and increasing intolerance of criticism of the retired field marshal and the army.

He also faced prosecution under ousted President Muhammad Mursi.

Meanwhile, a court in Egypt has sentenced 28 supporters of Mursi to life sentences in absentia, and 15 others to three years in prison, over violence during demonstrations.

Those charged were convicted of blocking roads and sabotage.