AMMAN, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Jordan's prime minister designate Omar Razzaz said the government will withdraw the income tax draft law that has triggered widely spread protests.
After a meeting with Lower House Speaker Atef Tarawneh and Senate President Faisal Fayez, Razzaz said there is consensus among all involved parties to withdraw the law.
"We started a dialogue about the law and will put things back on track," he told reporters. "We need to have deep and thorough discussions about the law and take into account the other taxes."
The income tax draft law should not be studied in isolation from other taxes, Razzaz said, stressing the determination to combat tax evasion, and "at the same time protect the right of citizens and not increase tax burdens."
He added that consultations and discussions were launched to form the new cabinet following the resignation of former Prime Minister Hani Mulki amidst protests demanding the withdrawal of the law and the sacking of the government.
The law, which seeks to increase income tax on individuals and several economic sectors, sparked nationwide protests over the past days.
Tens of thousands of Jordanians joined the protests, demanding the withdrawal of the law, which is part of reforms under a deal between Jordan and the International Monetary Fund.
Senate President Fayez said that "after the government announced its plan to withdraw the law, there is no justification for any protests."
The controversial bill focuses on the aspects of improving tax collection, curbing tax evasion and boosting tax revenues, which are expected to increase 300 million dinars (422.36 million U.S. dollars) annually.
The proposed law also seeks to increase the rate of income tax payers from 4.5 percent currently to 10 percent.
