E/CN.4/2006/5/Add.1 Page 51 received a verdict from the Court of Appeal, dated 25 January 2005, which upheld the original conviction. Response from the Government dated 24 June 2005 218. The Government indicated that Mr. Al-Aidy converted from Islam to Christianity ten years ago; something in itself considered a serious breach of the law. Yet no action was initiated against him during this period. However, Mr. Al-Aidy recently began proselytizing amongst Muslims, in clear defiance of the standing laws and well-established norms of the country, including Article 99 of the Jordanian Constitution. This conduct led to the initiation of a court case against him for apostasy and illegally proselytizing. The Government further informed the Special Rapporteur that Mr. Al-Aidy’s case was being reviewed by the Court of Appeal in accordance with applied legal procedures in Jordan. All legal action was carried out with full respect of Jordanian legal norms in due processes of law. Communication sent on 12 July 2005 219. Following on the Government’s response dated 24 June 2005, the Special Rapporteur requested the Government of Jordan to provide her with the relevant excerpts of the legal acts on which the actions taken against Mr. Al-Aidy were based. She also asked the Government to explain which restrictions to proselytism and missionary activities are provided for by Jordanian legislation and whether they comply with international standards as provided by article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Response from the Government dated 17 October 2005 220. The Government informed that Jordan has undertaken a number of legislative initiatives to move towards a society where individual freedoms are upheld, and where majority rule is coupled with minority rights. However, in certain situations societal pressures could impair freedom of choice. Those who proselytize amongst Muslims may be in danger of being alienated by society, which regards its sacred duty to protect Islam. However, we are in a process of societal change which government institutions strongly support. 221. When Mr. Al-Aidy got married, he did so in accordance with Shari’a Law. Once he decided to convert to Christianity, his marriage contract, as well as every legal aspect relating to his marital life is affected by the dramatic change. It therefore becomes possible to take legal action against him either by members of his family and or members of society. It is apparent that Mr. Al-Aidy himself chose to publicize his case. I f he had decided to convert quietly, there would have been less tension surrounding it. 222. The Government indicated that it was their firm belief that Mr. Al-Aidy could reduce or alleviate the pressures he is facing if he were to become aware of the religious sensitivities that Muslims in Jordan face and show respect for that. There are legislative and procedural requirements that Mr. Al-Aidy needs to undertake which may enable him to become a missionary in Jordan, such as the need to apply and register at the Prime Minister’s Office.