Jordan Times
Friday, November 16, 2007
King wants free
elections
AMMAN (JT) - His Majesty King Abdullah on Thursday said he was keen on having
free and fair elections that would enable citizens to exercise their
constitutional right in selecting those most capable of representing and serving
them.
At a meeting with Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit during a visit to the Prime
Ministry Thursday, King Abdullah urged public participation in the November 20
legislative polls, describing it as a “national duty”.
He said the elections are part of “our vision on how best to enhance the
democratic process”, as the country pursues a Lower House that is able to deal
with the coming challenges.
In a wide-ranging interview with the Jordan News Agency, Petra, published on
November 7, the King, who described the coming stage as crucial, said that the
legislative authority “bears the greater responsibility in drafting and
endorsing legislation that regulates citizens' lives, and in monitoring the
performance of the executive authority”.
The premier told the King during Thursday’s visit that all arrangements for a
fair and free vote are in place, stressing the government’s keenness to conduct
the polls in the best manner possible.
In addition, Bakhit briefed the King on steps the government has taken to set up
a social safety network to protect limited- and low-income citizens in the wake
of recent price surges.
The King said improving the socio-economic situation in all the parts of the
Kingdom and raising living standards is a priority in the coming stage.
Providing social safety for citizens across the Kingdom by securing housing,
healthcare, education and transport is a top priority, the King told Petra.
Bakhit updated His Majesty on measures to improve living conditions of citizens,
providing them with all essential services and creating more jobs to address
unemployment.
The soaring international oil prices have widened the state budget deficit to
unexpected levels. The government is expected in 2008 to totally lift subsidies
on fuel derivatives. The King’s vision, according to previous statements,
includes a social safety scheme that would spare the underprivileged the adverse
effects of the changes.
In his interview with Petra, the King said it was necessary to tie incomes to
inflation levels.