Ten injured as Jordanians protest against corruption

[News_Editor]

Ten injured as Jordanians protest against corruption

2011-08-13 00:05:46 GMT+7 (ICT)

AMMAN (BNO NEWS) -- Hundreds of Jordanians on Friday demonstrated across the country to demand sovereignty and an end to government corruption, Ammon News reported.

The coalition of pro-reform movements took to the streets of downtown Amman under the banner of "Friday of Sovereignty" following midday prayers to protest government stalling in implementing political reforms. Protesters chanted slogans against rampant corruption and squandering of national resources and the lack of oversight and accountability over state officials.

Several similar demonstrations took place in the southern governorates of Tafileh and Karak. At least 10 people were injured in Karak when government loyalists attacked a group of demonstrators with sticks and knives, according to Ammon News.

The Youth and Populist Movement held local government officials accountable for the attacks. The movement's spokesperson, Muath Btoush, said that "what took place today is a clear violation of the rights of Jordanian citizens to freedom of expression in a peaceful manner." "We hold the authorities responsible for the attacks," Btoush told Ammon News.

Jordanian protesters have been demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit's government for its failure to carry out political reforms. They are also demanding the trial of corrupt officials and have stressed that they will continue protesting until they witness "real and tangible measures" to combat corruption.

Last month, Jordan's King Abdullah II issued a decree approving a cabinet reshuffle in Bakhit's government. This was the first reshuffle of the cabinet, which was formed in February after protesters called for the resignation of then-current prime minister Samir Rifai and his government. The previous government was blamed for price hikes, excessive taxation, unemployment, and difficult economic conditions.

-- © BNO News All rights reserved 2011-08-13