Jordan’s king sacks cabinet
The king of Jordan yesterday sacked his government in the wake of street protests and asked an ex-army general to form a new cabinet.
King Abdullah’s move came after thousands of Jordanians took to the streets – inspired by the regime change in Tunisia and the turmoil in Egypt – and called for the resignation of prime minister Samir Rifai, who is being blamed for a rise in fuel and food prices and slowed political reforms.
The Royal Palace said Mr Rifai’s cabinet resigned.
King Abdullah also nominated Marouf al-Bakhit as his prime minister-designate, instructing him to “undertake quick and tangible steps for real political reforms, which reflect our vision for comprehensive modernisation and development in Jordan”.
Mr al-Bakhit previously served as Jordan’s premier from 2005-07.