Jordan releases detained publisher
Publisher of online newspaper, charged with propagating 'anti-regime sentiment,' freed on bail
A Jordanian prosecutor says authorities have freed the publisher of an online newspaper who was arrested three weeks ago after his website posted an article alleging misconduct by royal officials.
A prosecutor at the state security court says Jamal Muhtaseb was released on bail Sunday. The amount was not disclosed.
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The prosecutor spoke on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to brief the media.
Muhtaseb has been charged with propagating "anti-regime sentiment."
Muhtaseb's Gerasanews.com published a story alleging that the office of Jordan's monarchy told parliament not to refer to trial a former minister accused of corruption in a housing scheme backed by King Abdullah II.
Human Rights Watch and The Committee to Protect Journalists have criticized Muhtaseb's detention, calling it an assault on free speech.
