Jordan’s Prime Minister Steps Down in Wake of Protests Thousands had demonstrated in recent days against a plan to raise taxes in the country, a pivotal U.S. ally in the Middle East By Suha Ma’ayeh and Raja Abdulrahim
https://www.wsj.com/articles/jordans-prime-minister-steps-down-in-wake-of-protests-1528128116
Jordan’s Prime Minister Hani Mulki resigned Monday after thousands protested in recent days against his government’s plan to increase taxes, causing uncertainty in a country that is a vital U.S. ally in the region.
King Abdullah II has accepted the resignation of Mr. Mulki’s government, Jordan’s Royal Court said.
The king thanked the prime minister in a statement for his service and dedication in making difficult and unpopular decisions.
The resignation appears aimed at alleviating tensions after intensifying calls for Mr. Mulki’s dismissal by protesters who said his handling of the economy caused problems. But it remains unclear if the demonstrators will be pacified by the move.
The protests began Wednesday in Amman and other Jordanian cities and towns against a proposed revision to the country’s income tax law that would raise taxes, allow authorities to target more people and scrap exemptions on medical treatment and education.
The tax amendments follow a series of unpopular austerity measures the government adopted earlier this year, including the removal of subsidies on bread that nearly doubled its price. The tax on the sales of a wide range of products and services, including internet subscriptions, was also increased.
While the tax law amendments are aimed at boosting revenues and improving the country’s debt-ridden economy as part of measures urged by the International Monetary Fund, they would also deal a blow to the already strained lower and middle classes in Jordan, protesters say.
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