Tahboub: 'they accused me of Daeshism, so I referred to the judiciary as a citizen'

Jordan

Published: 2017-09-28 19:13

Last Updated: 2024-03-28 08:51


Tahboub talks to Roya about her formal complaint against defamation. (Photo Courtesy: Dima Tahboub)
Tahboub talks to Roya about her formal complaint against defamation. (Photo Courtesy: Dima Tahboub)

Early today, far-right Member of Parliament and the Islamic Action Front stated she issued a formal complaint to Jordan's judiciary against Rakan Hiyasat, two girls and three college students, under the pretense of defamation.

In a statement to Roya, Tahboub said: "Hiyasat and others have accused me of terrorism and lack of sympathy for Egyptian Copts when they were being targeted last month, which I completely refute as I have stood with them in parliament."

"After that, they slandered my reputation by publishing images portraying me as outside of humanity, and accusing me of Daeshism. These are accusations for devils and not Sons of Adam, and it is an accusation which the world supports and falls under the pretense of defamation," she added.

When asked about her refusal to accept or listen to alternative opinions, she responded saying: "the issue is not about freedom of speech. They tried to portray me beyond humanity. I have no problem being criticized in my performance as an MP, which is a right every citizen has given by the constitution".

"I know Rakan Hiyasat and respect that he is politically active opposed to the Gas Deal with the Occupation [Israel] but he must be accompanied with manners for someone who leads people," she added.

According to local news sites and social media, the particular images Tahboub is referring to are edited images potraying Tahboub with a sword in one hand, threatening anyone who does not fast during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Tahboub concluded by stating: "I resorted to the judiciary as a Jordanian citizen who was harmed by defamation, in accordance with the law, and in the end I will respect the judiciary's ruling in however they see fit."

Some critics take note of a double-standard in Tahboub's statements, stating the irony in her respect for free speech when she openly advocated for shutting down a magazine which had already ceased operations. In a recent tweet, Tahboub openly criticized the media for slandering her and claiming it is "run by Zionists".

Other activists also note the irony in claiming her portrayal is inhumane, as the MP tweeted several times invoking God's punishment on Jordan's discriminated and marginalized LGBTQ+ community.

Roya sources have confirmed that Hiyasat will be detained for another 15 days.

This article is an edited translation from the Arabic Edition