Islamic Awakening: Jordanians mark protest anniversary

Thousands of Jordanians have taken to streets across the country to mark the first anniversary of anti-government demonstrations, inspired by the Islamic Awakening.

More than 2,000 Jordanians marched from the Nakheel Square in the capital, Amman, to the Interior Ministry on Friday to demand real political reforms and an end to corruption among government officials.

They also condemned clashes that took place between demonstrators and counter-protesters in the city two weeks ago. The rally was held under heavy police presence.

Similar rallies were also reported in several other main cities.

The protest rallies came one day after the country’s political parties announced plans to adopt a new strategy to speed up and stimulate reform efforts.

Jordanians have been holding street protests demanding political reform, including the election of the prime minister by popular vote, and an end to corruption since January, 2011. There have been no calls for the king to be removed.

Since the beginning of protest rallies, Jordanian ruler, King Abdullah II, has sacked two prime ministers in a bid to avoid more protests. Awn al-Khasawneh, a judge at International Court of Justice, is Jordan’s third premier this year.

The king has also amended 42 articles in the 60-year-old constitution, giving parliament a stronger role in decision-making.