Latest news with #PoliticalPartiesLaw
Shafaq News
2 days ago
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Iraq's CF ‘uneasy' over three political shifts ahead of 2025 polls
Shafaq News/ The Iraqi Home Front movement (Harak al-Bayt al-Iraqi) warned on Wednesday that the Coordination Framework (CF), a political alliance of predominantly Shiite parties, is growing increasingly uneasy over three key shifts that could upend the political landscape ahead of the November 2025 elections. Movement leader Muhyi al-Ansari told Shafaq News the CF fears the possible return of the Patriotic Shiite Movement (formerly the Sadrists), especially if it aligns with civil groups or Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, arguing such a coalition could seriously disrupt the current balance of power. Al-Ansari also criticized Iraq's Independent High Electoral Commission for 'failing' to enforce the Political Parties Law, which prohibits armed factions from contesting elections—calling the lapse a 'direct constitutional breach.' The third concern, he noted, is growing public support for independents and technocrats, which threatens to weaken traditional political blocs. Several key figures have already announced their candidacies, including Nouri al-Maliki, head of the State of Law Coalition; al-Sudani of the Euphrates Movement (Al-Furatain); Hadi al-Amiri, head of the Badr Organization; Former Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi of the Progressive (Taqaddum) Party; and Mohsen al-Mandalawi, head of the National Foundation (Al-Asas) Coalition. Badr MP Mukhtar al-Mousawi called the upcoming vote 'difficult and decisive,' pointing to a trend among veteran leaders forming separate lists as Sudani distances himself from the CF. Analyst Mujashaa al-Tamimi told Shafaq News that the return of familiar names signals a tactical shift amid changing dynamics. 'Baghdad has become the focal point of political competition,' he said, warning that reformist forces could challenge entrenched elites. Meanwhile, the CF scrapped earlier plans to run fragmented slates and will now field joint lists in Diyala, Nineveh, and Saladin. The decision follows the formation of a new alliance—Qarar (Decision)—led by al-Sudani's al-Furatin Movement, al-Amiri's Badr Organization, and PMF chief Faleh al-Fayyadh.
Ammon
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Ammon
Political modernisation; no turning back
Mohammad Abu-Rumman Many politicians and analysts today attempt to draw a connection between the government's announcement regarding the case of youth affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood and the move toward dissolving the Islamic Action Front Party (IAF) and the Parliament. They interpret these developments as signs of a general retreat from the political modernization project and the partisan political experiment altogether. Such assumptions, however, are far from logical or grounded in reality. They do not align with the prudence, rationality, and wisdom that typically characterize Jordanian politics. More importantly, political modernization is a project repeatedly affirmed by His Majesty the King, carrying a forward-looking vision to develop the political system and steer the country steadily along a secure democratic there is a problem with a specific organization or political party, the solution is not to abandon the entire course, but rather to uphold one simple principle: the rule of law—applied to all without exception. This applies both to the case currently headed for the judiciary and to defining the relationship with the IAF in accordance with the Political Parties Law. It also extends to the Muslim Brotherhood organization, which no longer has legal standing or formal political representation. If it still exists on the ground, it is due to the tolerance of successive governments and Jordan's consistent preference for containment and leniency. However, it has become increasingly clear over the past few years that the official direction is shifting toward a decisive "surgical" correction of the situation. This involves applying the rule of law and enforcing the definitive judicial decisions issued in 2020, and demanding clear and unambiguous self-definition from any party, especially concerning its internal role and severance of any ambiguous external is illogical for some to blame the entire political modernization process and the broader partisan experiment every time a controversy arises. The Jordanian state is strong and fully capable of addressing any issue within its legal and political frameworks. Equally important is the need for the media narrative—especially from official channels representing the state's voice—to remain disciplined and clear. We must avoid blending or confusing different files. There are well-established national constants that are evident to all, whether concerning national unity, Jordan's historic and principled stance on the Palestinian cause, or the foundational values that have distinguished Jordanian governance since the establishment of the state. These values remain rooted and enduring—they are the secret to Jordan's political stability and a hallmark of its success, especially when compared to the political turmoil experienced by many other Arab to what some political circles suggest today, the current security issue underscores—not undermines—the need for developing responsible, national, programmatic political parties. It highlights the importance of strengthening society's capacities through political parties that are grounded in national constants and capable of building bridges between the state and the people. Such parties can reinforce rational and responsible discourse both in political institutions and in the streets. The solution is not to regress or abandon the field to unchecked rhetoric or groups with broad, negative perceptions of the state and its policies. Rather, this moment calls on political parties to continue building their capacities, institutions, and grassroots connections so that they may become competitive, realistic, and influential national movements in the return to the starting point: the development and modernization of the political system is a national necessity, not a fleeting choice or tactical maneuver. It is a strategic, deliberate path that represents the gateway to the future. It is essential for the youth generation who aspire to actively participate in shaping their future; it empowers society to express its interests and demands through political parties, and it enables the formation of governments based on platforms and national policies. This is the project of the state and of future generations—a project that we must all support, strengthen, and engage with. Jordanian youth today, amid rising frustration and disappointment fueled by regional turmoil—particularly in the occupied Palestinian territories—need political parties and a media discourse that restore their confidence, guide them toward the right path, and open the doors of hope. They must be shielded from falling into apathy, nihilism, and distrust of everything. This is the primary responsibility of political parties and the country's political elite today.
Jordan Times
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Political modernisation; no turning back
Many politicians and analysts today attempt to draw a connection between the government's announcement regarding the case of youth affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood and the move toward dissolving the Islamic Action Front Party (IAF) and the Parliament. They interpret these developments as signs of a general retreat from the political modernization project and the partisan political experiment altogether. Such assumptions, however, are far from logical or grounded in reality. They do not align with the prudence, rationality, and wisdom that typically characterize Jordanian politics. More importantly, political modernization is a project repeatedly affirmed by His Majesty the King, carrying a forward-looking vision to develop the political system and steer the country steadily along a secure democratic path. If there is a problem with a specific organization or political party, the solution is not to abandon the entire course, but rather to uphold one simple principle: the rule of law—applied to all without exception. This applies both to the case currently headed for the judiciary and to defining the relationship with the IAF in accordance with the Political Parties Law. It also extends to the Muslim Brotherhood organization, which no longer has legal standing or formal political representation. If it still exists on the ground, it is due to the tolerance of successive governments and Jordan's consistent preference for containment and leniency. However, it has become increasingly clear over the past few years that the official direction is shifting toward a decisive "surgical" correction of the situation. This involves applying the rule of law and enforcing the definitive judicial decisions issued in 2020, and demanding clear and unambiguous self-definition from any party, especially concerning its internal role and severance of any ambiguous external affiliations. It is illogical for some to blame the entire political modernization process and the broader partisan experiment every time a controversy arises. The Jordanian state is strong and fully capable of addressing any issue within its legal and political frameworks. Equally important is the need for the media narrative—especially from official channels representing the state's voice—to remain disciplined and clear. We must avoid blending or confusing different files. There are well-established national constants that are evident to all, whether concerning national unity, Jordan's historic and principled stance on the Palestinian cause, or the foundational values that have distinguished Jordanian governance since the establishment of the state. These values remain rooted and enduring—they are the secret to Jordan's political stability and a hallmark of its success, especially when compared to the political turmoil experienced by many other Arab states. Contrary to what some political circles suggest today, the current security issue underscores—not undermines—the need for developing responsible, national, programmatic political parties. It highlights the importance of strengthening society's capacities through political parties that are grounded in national constants and capable of building bridges between the state and the people. Such parties can reinforce rational and responsible discourse both in political institutions and in the streets. The solution is not to regress or abandon the field to unchecked rhetoric or groups with broad, negative perceptions of the state and its policies. Rather, this moment calls on political parties to continue building their capacities, institutions, and grassroots connections so that they may become competitive, realistic, and influential national movements in the future. To return to the starting point: the development and modernization of the political system is a national necessity, not a fleeting choice or tactical maneuver. It is a strategic, deliberate path that represents the gateway to the future. It is essential for the youth generation who aspire to actively participate in shaping their future; it empowers society to express its interests and demands through political parties, and it enables the formation of governments based on platforms and national policies. This is the project of the state and of future generations—a project that we must all support, strengthen, and engage with. Jordanian youth today, amid rising frustration and disappointment fueled by regional turmoil—particularly in the occupied Palestinian territories—need political parties and a media discourse that restore their confidence, guide them toward the right path, and open the doors of hope. They must be shielded from falling into apathy, nihilism, and distrust of everything. This is the primary responsibility of political parties and the country's political elite today.
Jordan Times
20-04-2025
- Politics
- Jordan Times
Cabinet endorses 2025 amendments to Penal Code, says they enforce rule of law, enhance human rights
Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Sunday chairs a Cabinet session, where amendments to Penal Code were approved (Photo courtesy of Prime Ministry) AMMAN — The Cabinet on Sunday approved the 2025 amendment to the Penal Code, saying they are line with the government's policy statement committing to a wider use of alternative sentencing. The proposed amendments will allow courts to replace prison sentences with community service and rehabilitation programmes both before and after court ruling, giving judges greater discretion and reducing prison overcrowding, according to a Prime Ministry's statement. Judges will also be empowered to collect fines under the Public Funds Collection Law and may allow payment in installments or deferral. The amendments support a shift towards restorative justice, which requires reconciliation between parties and financial compensation as a condition for sentence substitution, the statement said. Other measures include the elimination of the 100-hour cap on community service, home confinement orders, geographic restrictions, electronic monitoring, and new safeguards such as travel bans and financial obligations by offenders to avoid contact with certain individuals or institutions. The Cabinet also approved the validating reasons for amendments to the law on the Independent Election Commission in line with recent constitutional reforms, in particular Article 67, which expands the role of the commission to include the registration and supervision of political parties. The draft amendment is also in line with the Political Parties Law of 2022. In a move that reaffirms the Kingdom's commitment to the rights of persons with disabilities, the Cabinet approved the bylaw of the National Academy for Inclusive Education for 2025. The move came following His Majesty King Abdullah's participation in the Third Global Disability Summit, according to the statement. The Academy will develop institutional frameworks, implement quality standards and provide training for education professionals. It aims to institutionalise inclusive education, promote equal opportunities and support the integration of students with disabilities into mainstream education. The Cabinet directed the Ministry of Water and Irrigation to proceed with the dissolution of the Wadi Araba Development Company and to transfer its functions and employees back to the Jordan Valley Authority. The move is part of a broader public sector modernization effort aimed at eliminating duplication of roles, improving operational efficiency, and consolidating administrative oversight. The Cabinet also approved the 2025 Public Sector Organisational Structures Regulation, which redefines administrative levels and governance models in government ministries, mandates role reviews, and introduces strategic risk management plans. In support of the Hashemite Custodianship over the Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem, the Cabinet approved amendments to ensure fair salary assessments for employees of the Jerusalem Awqaf Authority. These include Royal "steadfastness bonuses" and targeted salary increases for the Holy city's Sharia judiciary employees, with improved promotion conditions for qualified employees, the statement said. The Cabinet ratified the final technical annexes for the Aqaba-Amman Water Desalination and Conveyance Project - known as the National Carrier. This massive infrastructure initiative, which will provide 300 million cubic meters of desalinated water annually, is the third largest water project in the region and a linchpin in Jordan's long-term water security strategy. To support the integration of renewable energy, the Cabinet approved a new tender process to establish battery-based electricity storage systems for the national grid managed by the National Electric Power Company. The initiative is part of Jordan's energy diversification and sustainability agenda. To stimulate the tourism sector, the Cabinet approved subsidies for participants in the "Urdunah Jannah" program until December 13, 2025. Jordanian citizens will be exempt from entrance fees to archaeological sites, and persons with disabilities will have their travel expenses fully covered. The program, which attracted more than 311,000 participants in 2024, provides guided, affordable travel experiences throughout Jordan. Finally, the Cabinet approved a cooperation agreement between the Public Security Directorate and the United Nations to improve facilities and services at the King Hussein Bridge. The plan includes maintenance work, infrastructure upgrades, modern surveillance equipment, and staff training, supporting broader efforts to modernize cross-border logistics and passenger services.
Shafaq News
12-03-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Islamic law, equality: Syria's draft constitution's core pillars revealed
Shafaq News/ Syria's draft constitutional declaration has been revealed, outlining key governance principles and legislative frameworks for the transitional phase, Sky News Arabia reported, citing Syrian sources. The document, prepared by a seven-member committee, including two women, defines the country's interim governance structure until a permanent constitution is adopted. It establishes the legal and political framework for managing state affairs during the transition. According to the draft, the key provisions include: • Syria is an independent, sovereign, and indivisible state; geographically and politically. • Islamic jurisprudence will serve as the primary source of legislation, while freedom of belief is guaranteed, and the state respects all Abrahamic religions. • The People's Assembly, appointed by the President, will assume legislative authority until a permanent constitution is enacted and Parliamentary elections take place. • A committee will be formed to draft a Political Parties Law, and all party activities will be suspended until legislation is finalized. • The state guarantees political participation and allows party formation on a national basis. • Commitment to civil peace, social stability, and the prevention of sectarian divisions. • All citizens are equal before the law, with no discrimination in rights and duties. • Transitional justice measures will ensure accountability, justice for victims, and honoring of martyrs. • Arabic is the official language of the state. Following his appointment as Syria's transitional president on January 29, Ahmad Al-Sharaa pledged to issue a constitutional declaration, dissolve the People's Assembly, and form a preparatory committee to establish a new legislative council. The Legal Committee for Drafting the Constitutional Declaration stated earlier this month that the document draws legitimacy from the National Dialogue Conference and the Victory Conference, where Syrian factions agreed on the necessity of a legal framework to oversee the transition, define governance principles, and safeguard rights and freedoms.
