Gov’t will not cover up corruption cases or suspicions — PM

AMMAN — Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Bisher Al Khasawneh on Monday said that the government "will not cover up any corruption case or even a suspicion of corruption," stressing that "this is the government's approach and what it pledged since its formation".

The prime minister's statements came during an oversight session of the Lower House and in response to MP Muhammad Fayez who demanded that the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources provide clarification about energy agreements signed with foreign parties, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

Khasawneh said that the government will provide the lawmaker with the documents of those agreements within days.

Fayez decided to adjourn his decision until he receives the required documents. 

The prime minister said that most of the energy-related agreements involve significant penalty clauses, and they may be unfair. 

He noted that these agreements entail international arbitration, and if Jordan loses them, it will result in significant financial losses.

Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Saleh Kharabsheh expressed readiness to meet with members of the House's Energy and Mineral Resources Committee to acquaint them with the details, plans and strategies of the ministry. 

Meanwhile, the Lower House voted on a proposal submitted by Speaker Abdulkarim Dughmi to refer former minister of water and irrigation to the Jordan Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission, following alleged violations related to the appointment of employees on temporary contracts at the ministry.