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Minister of Government Communication and Government Spokesperson Dr Muhannad Al-Mubaidin stated that Jordan boasts an election law that is proceeding in accordance with a deliberate and structured plan towards the transformation of the political system into a more democratic one, with the objective of establishing a party system.
Furthermore, he stated that the political modernisation project is still in its early stages of development and that the challenges encountered thus far will be addressed through the accumulation of experience in the coming months and years.
Mubaidin’s remarks were delivered during a dialogue session held by Middle East University on Monday. The session, entitled ‘The political system in Jordan between reality and hope’, was attended by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Middle East University, Senator Dr. Yaqoub Nasereddin; the Secretary General of the Ministry of Government Communication, Dr. Zaid Al-Nuwaisa; the President of the University, Prof. Salam Al-Mahadin; college deans; a number of academics; specialists; and students of the university.
Minister Al-Mubaidin highlighted the significant structural shifts that have transformed the political landscape in Jordan, emphasising the meticulously devised constitutional and legislative reforms. These reforms, he asserted, were not merely a reactive measure to contemporary challenges but rather a strategic endeavour to enhance democratic governance. He encouraged young people to recognise the significance of the present moment, to engage more actively with the realities of their lives, to understand the importance of public affairs, to educate themselves, and to be politically aware of the events around them. He asserted that this awareness would enable them to engage in constructive thinking, analysis, and choice.
In his remarks at the session, moderated by Dr. Hani Al-Badri, a faculty member at the Faculty of Media, he underscored the critical necessity to realign the relationship between the government and its citizens. He highlighted the significance of a robust framework that prioritizes transparency and refines government communication mechanisms. He stated, “It is not merely about disseminating information but also about formulating a new social contract, as the media plays a pivotal role in bridging gaps, dispelling misleading information, and providing an accurate and comprehensive picture of the political and legislative changes that occur within the Kingdom.”
He elucidated that Jordan has a history exceeding a century, during which it has constituted elective legislative councils, thereby substantiating that its foundation is predicated on democratic principles at the global level, not merely the regional one.
Minister Al-Mubaidin highlighted that political parties in Jordan have a long history, dating back to the democratic transition from 1928 to 1989. This process is still ongoing and originated from tribal leaders and individuals from urban and rural communities. Those who were most engaged with the political process were those who represented the tribal structure.
In response to a question regarding the alignment of the political system with contemporary realities and aspirations, Al-Mubaidin affirmed that the political system is capable of guiding the population towards a constructive path, thereby enabling the state to facilitate progress and overcome obstacles. The most notable aspect of the political system’s recent developments is the introduction of elected parliamentary councils based on programme mandates. This is evident in the allocation of 30% of seats in the forthcoming parliament to political parties, rising to 65% of seats in the House of Representatives in subsequent sessions.
In his remarks on the role of universities, Al-Mubaidin underscored the pivotal role of these institutions in fostering and sustaining youth engagement in political processes, particularly in the context of the forthcoming parliamentary elections. He called upon universities to assume a proactive stance in equipping the next generation with the requisite knowledge and skills for active political participation.
Furthermore, he suggested that universities and other educational establishments have a responsibility to facilitate the involvement of young people in the political process.
Al-Mubaidin listened to the interventions and questions raised by the audience, which included members of the faculty and students and which focused on the system of political modernisation and participation in the upcoming parliamentary elections.
In response, Senator Dr. Nasereddin shared his insights on Jordan’s evolving political landscape, referencing the King’s discussion papers, particularly the fifth one, which outlines a comprehensive framework for strengthening democratic institutions within the Kingdom.