Jordanian King appoints economist to form govt.

Jordan’s King Abdullah tasked former World Bank economist Omar al-Razzaz on Tuesday with forming a new government and called for broad talks on a planned income tax law that has provoked the country’s biggest protests in years.

Omar al-Razzaz. | Photo Credit: MUHAMMAD HAMED

He appointed Razzaz after accepting Hani Mulki’s resignation as Prime Minister, attempting to defuse public anger over IMF-driven reforms.

The King said the new Cabinet should review the tax system and immediately start a dialogue over the draft income tax law, which protesters have staunchly opposed. He said political parties, unions, and civil society groups must take part in the talks. Razzaz was Education Minister in the outgoing government.

Source: REUTERS

Irfan Ansari
The kootneeti Team - Middle East Watch