The Jordanian authorities continue to detain researcher Al-Mu’tasim Billah Matar for the 21st consecutive day, without providing any reasons for the arrest or filing formal charges against him.
A security force arrested Matar on 30 September and took him to an undisclosed location, without explaining the reasons for the arrest or presenting any legal arrest warrant.
Al-Mu’tasim Billah Matar is the director of the Qubba Cultural Association for the Teaching of Al-Quds Studies and holds a Master’s degree in Islamic History and Civilisations. According to his family, he has never been involved in any unlawful activity and is known for his dedication to serving his country and community through research and knowledge, avoiding any signs of extremism or misconduct.
His arbitrary detention stands in contradiction to Jordan’s international obligations, particularly the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Jordan is a signatory. This covenant guarantees every individual the right to liberty and security, and protection from arbitrary arrest or enforced disappearance.
Article 8 of the Jordanian Constitution addresses personal freedom, stating explicitly: “No person may be arrested, detained, imprisoned, or have their freedom restricted except in accordance with the provisions of the law.” Additionally, the Jordanian Code of Criminal Procedure requires the presentation of a judicial arrest warrant, allows detainees to contact their lawyer, and mandates that their family be informed of their whereabouts.
The continued detention of Al-Mu’tasim Billah Matar without clear legal procedures raises serious concerns about respect for the principles of justice and human rights in Jordan. This situation calls for urgent action to ensure the safety of Al-Mu’tasim Billah and all political detainees in the Kingdom, and to protect their fundamental rights.
