King holds first follow-up meeting with judicial reform panel

AMMAN — His Majesty King Abdullah on Sunday reiterated that judicial reform is a priority in the coming stage.

He made his remarks at a meeting with the head and members of the newly formed Royal Committee for the Development of Judiciary and the Rule of Law.

His Majesty said that political, economic and social developments depend on judicial development, which makes it a priority in the future of the Kingdom, stressing the need to apply a holistic strategy that builds on previous efforts.

During the meeting at Al Husseiniya Palace, His Majesty noted the importance of updating legislation, accelerating litigation and improving the skills of judicial personnel.

The King praised the committee’s calibre, as it comprises seasoned jurists. He said he was "awaiting the results of your work in four months", adding that he would follow up with the committee through periodical meetings.

Earlier this month, His Majesty entrusted former prime minister Zeid Rifai with chairing a committee to reform the judiciary and enroot the rule of law.

The committee is tasked with working out a "holistic" strategy to deal with the challenges that face the judiciary, keep it up-to-date, improve its performance, create a more conducive environment for judicial cadres to perform better, modify the criteria followed when appointing judges, upgrade their skills and improve their living standards.

For his part, Rifai noted that the King’s sixth discussion paper, which addresses both issues, has aptly reflected His Majesty's future vision, and that the committee will send its recommendations on policies, executive programmes and proposed legislative amendments within four months.

Royal Court Chief Fayez Tarawneh and King's Office Director Jafar Hassan attended the meeting.