Jordan Times
Tuesday, April 5, 2005
Political development is
on track — Khader
By Ahmad Barakat
AMMAN — The government on Monday said the formula
of having governments elected directly by citizens might be adopted at a certain
point, but first there are requirements for political development that should be
met.
Minister of Culture and Government Spokesperson Asma Khader said when
governments undergo a vote of confidence in the Lower House, they become subject
to the people's vote and are elected directly in this sense, as MPs represent
the population.
Khader said there has been progress in the level of political development,
including the setting up of the Royal Committee that seeks to achieve
decentralisation through regional council elections.
In her weekly press briefing yesterday, Khader said the Kingdom adopted its
reform programme long before any calls for political reform in the Middle East.
“We act out of self-will whose aspects were identified through several documents
and public stands, whether based on a Royal vision, the Constitution, or stands
unanimously approved by Jordanian society,” Khader said.
On the issue of the Jordanian detainees in Israel, Khader said Foreign Minister
Hani Mulki has announced that the two sides are close to reaching an agreement.
She stressed that the Kingdom is determined to see all Jordanian detainees
released.