Middle East
Jordan's king promises democratic change
Abdullah meets popular demand for elected cabinets but offers no timetable, saying sudden change could lead to "chaos".
Last Modified: 12 Jun 2011 21:25
 Many Jordanians want the king to loosen his absolute grip on power, which includes appointing the prime minister [AFP]

Jordan's king has bowed to popular demands for elected cabinets but given no timetable, saying that sudden change could lead to "chaos and unrest'' in this country that has averted the turmoil seen in other Arab nations.


In the televised speech on Sunday marking his 12th year as Jordan's ruler, Abdullah said that future cabinets will be formed according to an elected parliamentary majority.



Many Jordanians want the king to loosen his absolute grip on power, which includes appointing prime ministers and cabinets.

Labib Kamhawi, a political analyst, said "the king's remarks were a step forward, but we have to wait and see the final outcome".

Analyst Salama Nematt discusses the king's speech

Kamhawi, who is usually an outspoken critic of Abdullah's policies, said: "The speech was positive on critical issues like electing a prime minister in the future.





Jamil Abu Bakr, a Muslim Brotherhood spokesman, warned reforms were needed to "avoid the tragedies taking place in the region".



Protests in Jordan have been relatively smaller and generally peaceful, although there was one person killed in unrest.

Al Jazeera and agencies
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