Jordan: New prime minister to drop new tax law June 7 /update 5

Event

Recently appointed Prime Minister Omar al-Razzaz announced on Thursday, June 7, that the government will drop a recently proposed tax law. According to al-Razzaz, there is a consensus within parliament to withdraw the bill in order to end ongoing anti-government protests. He also told reporters that he will meet with various civic bodies to create a new tax system “that will not trample on citizens’ rights.” Related protests may still occur in Amman in the coming days despite al-Razzaz’s announcement.

Context

The ongoing wave of protests, launched last week, has resulted in some clashes, leading to injuries and arrests. The International Monetary Fund (IMF)-backed measures are part of a three-year initiative aimed at reducing the country's debt, which remains at 95 percent of gross domestic product (GDP).

Advice

Individuals in Jordan, particularly in Amman, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.