AMMAN, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Jordanian Prime Minister Omar Razzaz and members of his new cabinet were sworn in on Thursday.
Razzaz was appointed after former Prime Minister Hani Mulki resigned early June following nationwide protests in rejection of the economic policies and the income tax draft law.
Rajai Muasher was sworn in as deputy prime minister and minister of state, Hala Zawati as energy minister, Ezzeddine Kanakrieh as finance minister, and Samir Mubaidin as interior minister.
Ayman Safadi was appointed as minister of foreign affairs, Jumana Ghneimat as minister of state for media affairs, and Mary Kawar as minister of planning and international cooperation.
In addition to Razzaz, there are 28 ministers in the new cabinet, seven of whom are women.
During his consultations with lawmakers, political parties and professional associations over the past few days, Razzaz stressed that the new government will not be a totally technocrat one.
In the Letter of Designation to Razzaz, Jordan's King Abdullah II said that the new government is tasked with leading a revival that harnesses the potential of Jordanians and ensures them quality services, a lean and efficient government system, and a social safety system that protects the vulnerable within a fair tax environment.
The king instructed the government to immediately launch a dialogue in coordination with the parliament and the participation of parties, unions and various civil society institutions to come up with a new income tax law, which the king described as indispensable and an entry point into an era of growth and justice.
Following his designation, Razzaz said the government would withdraw the income tax draft law and start a dialogue about the bill.
