Jordan again reshuffles cabinet to tackle economic challenges

Latest changes mark third cabinet shuffle since end of Hani al-Mulki’s premiership in June 2018 amid nationwide protests against proposed tax and price hikes

King Abdullah II of Jordan addresses the World Economic Forum at the Dead Sea, Jordan on April 6, 2019. (WEF via AP, Pool)
King Abdullah II of Jordan addresses the World Economic Forum at the Dead Sea, Jordan on April 6, 2019. (WEF via AP, Pool)

AMMAN, Jordan — Jordan’s King Abdullah II has approved a cabinet shuffle amid escalating economic pressures, bringing new officials into key portfolios like interior, planning and labor.

Jordanian Prime Minister Omar Razzaz announced the appointment of eight new ministers Thursday.

State-run media reported the reshuffle would try to tackle economic challenges that have mounted in the wake of neighboring Syria’s civil war, and prepare Jordan for the Middle East peace plan that the Trump administration has promised to release in coming months.

Thursday’s reshuffle is the third since Razzaz replaced Hani al-Mulki as prime minister in June 2018 amid nationwide protests against proposed tax increases and price hikes.

The frequent government changes are seen as a way of deflecting public frustration in a country that has long struggled with economic mismanagement and declining living standards.

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