Jordan Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh Resigns Days After Election

Jordan's Prime Minister Bisher Khasawneh has resigned, according to officials familiar with the situation. This move comes less than a week after parliamentary elections that saw gains for the Islamist opposition in the US-allied kingdom.

US-educated Jaafar Hassan, currently head of King Abdullah's office and a former planning minister, is expected to succeed Khasawneh. Hassan will face significant challenges, including mitigating the economic impact of the Gaza war on Jordan, which has been struggling with reduced investment and a sharp decline in tourism.

Economic Challenges Ahead

The outgoing prime minister had been working on reforms initiated by King Abdullah aimed at reversing a decade of sluggish growth. The economy has been growing at around 2 per cent, a rate worsened by the pandemic and conflicts in neighbouring Iraq and Syria.

The recent parliamentary election saw notable gains for the Muslim Brotherhood opposition and allies of Hamas. Their success was fuelled by anger over Israel's actions in Gaza. Despite these gains, the 138-member parliament still retains a pro-government majority.

Political Landscape Shifts

A more vocal Islamist-led opposition could pose challenges to IMF-led free-market reforms and foreign policy decisions. The new composition of parliament may lead to increased debates and potential shifts in policy direction.