Khaberni - Against the backdrop of the legal developments related to the circulating video of artist Hussam Silawi, and the resulting security circular against him, the expert in cybercrime and media law, attorney Marwan Salem, clarified the legal framework for potential charges and the penalties stipulated by Jordanian legislation in such cases.
Multiple legal descriptions and potential penalties
Salem explained that the public prosecution might assign more than one charge at the same time to the accused, due to the complexity of the criminal descriptions related to the act committed through digital media, which could lead to an accumulation of penalties as determined by the court.
Firstly: Violation of the Cybercrime Law
He indicated that the incident could fall under Article 17 of the Cybercrime Law, which criminalizes the publishing of content that could insult religious feelings over the internet, imposing penalties including imprisonment ranging from one to three years, along with a financial fine determined by the judiciary.
Secondly: Insulting the Prophets
He clarified that among the possible charges is the crime of insulting the prophets, contrary to Article 273 of the Penal Code, which is punishable by imprisonment for up to three years.
Thirdly: Contempt of Religions
According to Article 278 of the Penal Code, any act, speech, or published content that offends religious beliefs might subject its author to a prison sentence of four months to two years, in addition to a financial fine.
Fourthly: Inciting Religious Strife
He also pointed to the possible charge of inciting religious discord, based on Article 150, which could carry a punishment of imprisonment from one to three years and a limited financial fine.
Precautionary administrative measures
Salem noted that such actions affect public order, allowing the administrative governor to take provisional detention measures against the accused upon appearance, until the final judicial decision in the case.
Investigations and security follow-up
From his side, a security source confirmed that the Cyber Crimes Unit of the General Security Directorate has begun investigating the circulated video, which included explicit insults to the Islam religion and the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, pointing out that the person concerned currently resides outside the country, and will be circulated according to procedures to ensure his appearance before the court.
The source added that the competent authorities will arrest him immediately upon his entry into Jordanian territory to continue the investigations, affirming that the security services are monitoring the content published through digital platforms and will not tolerate any violations that affect religious values or social stability.
Widespread interaction and demands for accountability
Hussam Silawi's name had topped the social media platforms in Jordan after a live stream where he addressed religious issues, sparking a wave of criticism from followers who considered his remarks an insult to beliefs.
Activists called for the activation of relevant laws regarding the combat of hate speech and incitement, stressing that freedom of expression should be exercised within the limits of respecting religious beliefs.
Family stance
In related context, the father of Silawi issued a statement declaring his disownment of his son and the statements attributed to him, confirming the severance of their relationship, and that these actions do not reflect the family's values or principles.
