Amman (AsiaNews / Agencies) - King Abdullah of Jordan yesterday “dismissed” the government, and appointed a new prime minister with the task of preparing a plan for "real political reform." The decision of the Hashemite monarch has come following the protests of the past days.
The protesters demanded that the government take steps to reduce unemployment and to contain rising prices. They accused the Prime Minister Samir Rifai of not being capable to deal wit the situation and demanded his resignation. The gesture appears an attempt to prevent the public protest taking on the form of those inTunisia and Egypt.
The new Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit has been charged by the king with the task of putting in place urgent reforms. His appointment was contested by the Islamist opposition. A statement from the royal palace said Bakhit's mission is "to implement practical steps, quick and tangible results to launch a real political reform, increased democratization in Jordan and to ensure a safe and decent life for all Jordanians."
Bakhit is a retired general, he served as prime minister from 2005 to 2007. Previously he was a national security adviser and ambassador to Israel. Among the country's problems are growing corruption, rising unemployment and increased poverty. Unemployment is at 12% and the poverty rate 25%. About 70% of unemployed Jordanians are under 31.