MUSCAT: Oman’s Sultan Qaboos pardoned yesterday all dissidents jailed for defaming the ruler or taking part in protests.
The official Oman News Agency did not say how many prisoners would be freed, but activists say courts sentenced at least 50 dissidents to jail terms of up to 18 months last year.
“His Majesty Sultan Qaboos has issued a royal pardon for those convicted of defamation, information technology crimes and unauthorized rallies,” the agency said.
Last week a court freed on bail eight activists, part of a group of prisoners who went on hunger strike last month saying they had been sentenced unfairly. The court ordered a retrial.
Oman has also pledged to create tens of thousands of public sector jobs. But delays in implementing the promises have kept protests simmering.
Qaboos pardons all activists
