Government wins vote of confidence with overwhelming majority

AMMAN — The government of Prime Minister Jafar Hassan on Wednesday won the Lower House's vote of confidence with a majority of 82 MPs of the 135 MPs present.

The voting process took place after Hassan delivered his response to the deputies’ remarks made on the government’s policy statement, which he submitted to the House on Sunday.

Of the 135 MPs present on Wednesday, 52 deputies voted “nay” for the government, while two abstained and three were absent.

The vote of confidence was conducted following three days of deliberations in morning and afternoon sessions, during which 129 lawmakers from the 138-strong Lower House taking the podium to present their notes on the government’s policy statement.

Addressing the House ahead of vote, Hassan noted that the government will submit an executive programme to the Chamber in the beginning of January, detailing mechanism, timetables and allocated budgets to execute plans listed in the policy statement.

The prime minister said that the government’s policies are not “built on dreams that cannot be realised” but on executive programmes with well-defined timetables to implement the policy statement which, he said, is centred around implementing the economic, political and administrative modernization endeavour.

Responding to some MPs, who raised concerns over the financing of mega projects listed on the government’s policy statement, including the Aqaba Railway and the National Water Carrier, Hassan explained that these projects rely on domestic and foreign investments, government contributions, and external grants. 

“Most of them are planned to extend over the next four years, and the relevant figures are clearly outlined in the draft budget law submitted,” he said.

On the makeup of the government and the selection of the ministers, Hassan pointed out that the ministers have been selected based on their “competencies, capabilities, determination, and dedication to work and achievement.”

“A significant portion of the team contributed to formulating the vision for economic and political modernisation and fully understands what is required to implement its programmes and projects. They are deeply committed to this vision,” the premier said.

As for the ministers with partisan background, Hassan said that they were chosen for their expertise in economics, media, and administration and not for their party affiliations. “The issue of partisan representation in governments depends on programmatic agreements, commitment to them, and their support in Parliament during the coming phase.”

Hassan noted that the ministers, who participated in the former government, are capable and tasked with programmes and projects they are well-acquainted with and understand the requirements for their implementation, ensuring the completion of these key projects without delay.

The prime minister pledged to maintain constant cooperation and build solid partnership with the House in realizing the government’s plans and serving national interests.