Deteriorating Health of Detained Journalist Ahmed Hassan Al-Zoubi
The health condition of Ahmed Hassan Al-Zoubi, a detained Jordanian writer, is reportedly deteriorating while he remains imprisoned at Marka Prison in Amman. According to his brother, Mahmoud Al-Zoubi, Ahmed is experiencing severe pain and is reliant on painkillers for relief. Recent medical tests have revealed alarming increases in his kidney and liver enzymes, compounded by chronic diabetes, which has led to significant weight loss of over 10 kilograms.
During a recent visit, Ahmed expressed his distress over the psychological pressure he faces due to prison conditions, describing himself as exhausted and visibly pale. Despite multiple requests, his family has yet to receive the results of his medical tests, raising concerns about the transparency of his health management within the prison system.
Family and Legal Action Taken
In response to Ahmed's deteriorating health, his family has filed a formal complaint with the Ministry of Justice and the Prison Administration, holding them accountable for any further decline in his condition. His defense attorney, Louay Obeidat, has called for Ahmed’s immediate release, emphasizing that his ongoing health issues pose a significant risk to his life. Obeidat argues that the law allows for the replacement of Ahmed’s prison sentence with an alternative, especially given that his detention stems from a comment made on social media rather than any violent act.
Public Outcry and Controversy
The case of Ahmed Hassan Al-Zoubi has ignited a wave of public controversy in Jordan, particularly regarding the country’s cybercrime laws. Following his arrest, the hashtag #AhmedHassanAlZoubi gained significant traction on social media, reflecting public discontent over the government's handling of dissenting voices. Amnesty International has also joined the call for his release, asserting that no individual should be imprisoned for expressing criticism of the authorities. As a well-known satirical writer and activist, Ahmed's situation has sparked widespread debate on freedom of expression in Jordan, highlighting the delicate balance between government authority and individual rights.
