Anticipating Change: Jordan Prepares for Seventh Cabinet Reshuffle Under Prime Minister Bishr al-Khasawneh

Anticipating Change: Jordan Prepares for Seventh Cabinet Reshuffle Under Prime Minister Bishr al-Khasawneh

A Sign of Change: Ministers Submit Resignations

In a move signaling a significant cabinet reshuffle, ministers in Jordan’s government have tendered their resignations to Prime Minister Bishr al-Khasawneh. This event took place during a recent cabinet meeting, providing a preliminary step towards a governmental amendment. This reshuffle will be the seventh since Prime Minister Bishr al-Khasawneh assumed office on October 7, 2020.

Historical Context: High Turnover in Jordan’s Government

Prime Minister Bishr al-Khasawneh, appointed as Jordan’s head of government in 2020, succeeded Omar Al-Razzaz. As the 15th Prime Minister under King Abdullah II, who ascended the throne on February 7, 1999, al-Khasawneh has been noted for his high rate of ministerial reshuffles. However, the reasons behind this high turnover remain unclear.

Details of the Impending Reshuffle

The forthcoming reshuffle includes the departure of two ministers and the induction of five new ministers. It also envisages the relocation of one minister and the separate appointment of ministers for the Labor and Transport Ministries. The swearing-in ceremony before King Abdullah II will not be held immediately. If members of the parliament are appointed as ministers, they will tender their resignations to the General Secretariat of the Parliament hours before the oath.

Changes in Specific Ministries

The reshuffle is expected to involve the departure of the Minister of Government Communications and the Minister of Water. Additionally, the Minister of Political and Parliamentary Affairs is expected to be reassigned to another ministry. The reshuffling also includes separating the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Transport, along with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply from the Ministry of Labor.

Previous Reshuffles and Future Expectations

This forthcoming reshuffle follows the sixth adjustment to Khasawneh’s government last December, which was limited to the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. Executive and legislative circles anticipate the Khasawneh government to remain in office until the next parliamentary elections in the fall of 2024. This aligns with the Head of State’s desire to synchronize the executive branch’s term with the four parliamentary sessions.

Strategic Mandate for Khasawneh’s Government

Khasawneh’s government has been tasked with overseeing the implementation of a strategic package for political and economic reform, as well as the enhancement of public administration. This mandate involves overseeing the implementation of a series of strategies for political and economic modernization and public administration development. Despite the high turnover of cabinet members, the current government’s mandate remains focused on these goals.