Jordan Times
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
King says Royal Court
study on anti-corruption mechanism ready
'Government studying special pardon'
AMMAN (Petra) — His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday said an "integrated study"
by the Royal Court reconsidering anti-corruption mechanisms was ready.
King Abdullah told Islamic Action Front (IAF) and Democratic Alliance MPs at a
meeting that the study, which would guarantee more transparency, justice and
integrity, was to be announced soon.
It was the third meeting between the King and parliamentary blocs to discuss
reform plans and means to face economic challenges.
During the meeting at the Royal Court, IAF deputies called for a general amnesty
for prisoners.
An official said yesterday the King asked the government to look into the
possibility of a special pardon.
The lawmakers also spoke of poverty and unemployment.
In a related development, Prime Minister Adnan Badran began yesterday a series
of meetings with parliamentary blocs, seeking to enhance cooperation between the
executive and legislative powers.
He met Tuesday with the 24-member National Parliamentary Action Front at the
residence of its leader, House Speaker Abdul Hadi Majali.
Badran told the deputies at the four-hour meeting that his government has clear
programmes on all issues of national concern. He urged joint action to
accelerate the pace of reforms in the Kingdom.
Members of the bloc spoke about various domestic issues, including unemployment,
poverty and health insurance.
In the next four days, Badran is expected to meet with IAF, National Democratic
Coalition, National Front, Democratic Alliance, Shaab, Watan, New Reformists and
independent MPs.