Women debtors to be released thanks to local radio show

AMMAN — Dozens of Jordanian women who are in prison for failing to repay debts could be released during the fasting month of Ramadan thanks to a local radio show.

Ali Bashiti, an International Peace Organisation ambassador, said fewer than 30 women were imprisoned due to debts, some of whom owe less than JD20.

Bashiti launched the initiative to secure the women's release with the Public Security Department's Amen FM.

A daily programme on Amen FM (89.5) is focusing on women who have no prior criminal record, many of whom took loans to start small projects which failed, Bashiti said, adding that one imprisoned woman is nine months pregnant, while others have young children waiting for them.

On Wednesday, Bashiti told The Jordan Times that a Jordanian living in the US called the programme and pledged to donate $20,000 (around JD14,100) to repay the women’s debts and secure their release.  

Some have been already released and others will be freed next week, according to Bashiti, who added that another initiative will be launched soon to help men with chronic illnesses who are imprisoned due to debts.