Concerned citizen

I am very happy to report that “speaking up” and pointing out things that can be improved upon, can be a positive thing. 

Two days ago I wrote and posted photos about the unacceptable condition of the passport offices in Wadi Seer. 

The street entrance was very dirty with garbage and junk on both sides. On the wall it was clearly marked that this was a government office. Just inside there were large pieces of broken glass, and a window that everyone going up the steps had to pass under there was a metal shutter that was hanging by one hinge, clearly a hazard. 

The walls and floor were very dirty and the reception area, which had only one ceiling fan and closed windows, was too small for the over 150 persons waiting in line. Not enough seats were available and there was no ticketing system; it took two-and-a-half hours to reach the window. 

Once I reached the window, it was a simple process and I was told to return after two hours. I asked if I could send someone to pick up the passport and had to sign an authorisation paper. 

The next day (Monday), our office man went to pick up my new passport and he returned to report that the garbage in the street and entrance had been cleared, the broken glass and shutter removed and the floor obviously newly cleaned! 

It is not enough — surely a ticket system similar to banks can be installed as well as more seats and better ventilation. 

But I am very pleased that someone heard my cry of despair and shame — Jordan is better than that. We can show a better face to the world. A lesson learned, never shrug a shoulder, never turn a blind eye and never be say nothing can be done. 

Rosemary Bdeir
Amman