From : awenalmeshagbah@yahoo.com
Sent : Saturday, May 13, 2006 4:03 PM
To : arabtimesnewspaper@hotmail.com


Subject : Dr. Abbadi again, and his open letter to Secretary Rice

Please publish my reply to Dr. Abbadi's letter

Dr. Abbadi

My name is Owen Al-Meshagbeh and I am originally from Jordan. I live and work in the United States (Boston, Massachusetts).

I have recently read your articulate open letter to Secretary Rice. I was very impressed of your insight, analysis and grace. I want to commend you on your bravery. Also, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt appreciation for you and your colleagues for taking this honorable stance.

It is important that you and other courageous Jordanians stand up for the corrupt regime in Amman. No matter what, do not let the regime allies intimidate you or entice you to compromise your principles. You continue to give your supporters hope about Jordan and its wonderful people.

I agree with you that there is no genuine democracy in the country. The king and his cronies are pathetic and cowardly. They are very insecure. They do not have the courage to engage real reformers in serious and sustentative debate.

Therefore, it is commendable that you had the opportunity to meet with U.S. officials in Amman to discuss your concerns about the current status of the “alleged” democracy in Jordan. It is essential that you continue to engage American representatives to seek their support. The U.S. government is very determined to promote democratic principles. They have finally realized that to win the war against terror, they need to promote democracy and transparency, which Jordan lacks at this time.

Again, I can not thank you enough for being brave to put together this coalition to fight for democracy and openness in Jordan. You are indeed making a difference! I am sure that like-minded Jordanians would love to help your peaceful movement. Thus, I would suggest that you need to reach out to them to help your movement.

I am proud of you and the principles that you stand for. May God continue to bless you with courage and strength. You are an incredible example to all Jordanians; your Jordanian family is very lucky to have you.

Awen