TAIF — A Taif man who won a reprieve after 18 years on death row on condition that he pays SR27 million in diyyah (blood money) before Jan. 12 has appealed for help to raise the money before the deadline, Alsharq newspaper reported on Tuesday. Awad Al-Harbi said in his appeal: “The deadline is rapidly approaching. I hope all generous people will help me raise the amount before it is too late.” Al-Harbi killed his friend and colleague Faraj Al-Subaie about 18 years ago but he maintains it was never intentional. “By mistake I pulled the trigger of a pistol after we fought while coming from a hunting trip in the mountains of Tabuk.” Al-Harbi had to wait until the youngest child of the victim turned 18, allowing him to decide whether he should be executed or pardoned. After mediation from tribesmen and dignitaries in the area, the son agreed to pardon him on condition that he pays SR27 million before the Hijri month of Safar. While in prison, Al-Harbi got married to the daughter of another prisoner who was also on the death row. The wedding took place inside the prison and was attended by all the inmates. Four years after his marriage, his father-in-law was executed. Al-Harbi has a daughter whom he named Amal (hope). He said: “I am in a hurry to collect the diyyah money so I can get out of prison and be with my daughter for the first time.” While in prison Al-Harbi was able to complete his secondary education, register in Taif University and is now hoping to obtain his degree within a few months. “My greatest achievement will be to avoid beheading. I hope people will help me raise the money and spare my life for my wife and daughter.” A bank account was opened for him by the Makkah governorate to receive donations.
