Jordan Celebrates 65 years of Independence

Jordan Celebrates 65 years of Independence

May 29, 2011 - The Professional Association on Saturday hosted the 65th anniversary celebrations of Jordan's independence with an event in Amman, Jordan addressed by Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit and other dignitaries.

Speeches were followed by traditional music and dancing, which was so infectious members of the audience joined in at the end. (Video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JuKcTMAyDY)

The Prime Minister spoke about the shared history of Jordan, mentioning Karameh. He also indicated that there would be relief in sight for teachers and vendors, two groups of Jordanian society who are particularly suffering under the current adverse economic conditions.

In other Independence celebrations, His Majesty King Adbullah Hussein on Wednesday announced a general amnesty, and directed the Jordanian government to draft a general pardon law.

Meanwhile, the ministers of justice and health both resigned on Thursday. Hussein Mjalli and Yassin Husban were reported to have resigned out of 'moral responsibility' in connection with the corruption case of Jordanian tycoon Khalid Shahin. Their ethical responsibility relates to their departments' failings relating to Shahin's release from prison to go overseas for medical treatment, from which he has reportedly refused to return.

However, both ministers deny their resignations are connected to the Shahin case, instead citing the blocked road ro reform, and barriers to progress, as their reasons for resigning.

While the crackdown on corruption is likely to see more resignations, the Prime Minister is personally overseeing investigations to ensure due process is observed, and international standards adhered to.

ENDS

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