Amman, November 23 (Petra) – The Cabinet approved several draft laws and administrative amendments aimed at strengthening governance, boosting digital transformation, improving service delivery and reinforcing the social safety net.

Election and Governance Reform The Cabinet endorsed a draft amendment to the Independent Election Commission (IEC) Law of 2025, which will now move to the House of Representatives.

The amendment enhances oversight of all electoral stages, reinforces integrity and transparency, regulates digital campaigning and sets rules governing the candidacy and political neutrality of Commission employees.

Jordan Valley Development A draft amendment to the Jordan Valley Development Law of 2025 was also approved. It expands the Jordan Valley Authority's mandate to include studying, designing, building and operating all types of dam projects nationwide.

The changes aim to strengthen water-resource protection, streamline procedures, accelerate investment and increase private-sector participation.

The amendments grant judicial powers to designated employees and extend to the Authority the same privileges enjoyed by government ministries.

Meteorology Law The Cabinet approved the justifications for a new Meteorology Law, which will regulate weather forecasting amid concerns over unverified sources.

The legislation seeks to improve forecast accuracy, support early-warning systems and restrict official forecasting to qualified entities.

Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028 As part of public-sector modernisation, the government adopted the Jordanian Digital Transformation Strategy 2026–2028, developed with public- and private-sector input.

The strategy focuses on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, 5G and fiber expansion, digital identity, data governance and emerging technologies.

It includes 57 projects spanning digital government services, AI, digital health and education and the green digital economy.

Administrative Reforms The Cabinet approved amendments to the Administrative Organisation Bylaws of: The Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply establishing a new data and information management unit and realigning directorates.

It also approved the justifications for restructuring the Ministry of Labour, aiming to modernise its organisational structure, strengthen inspection capacity and improve service quality.

Social Protection Measures In support of the social safety net, the Cabinet extended the freeze on bread prices until December 31, 2026, while continuing cash support for bakeries.

The wheat subsidy for 2026 is expected to reach JOD109 million, part of JOD171 million allocated for wheat and barley support.

The government will continue covering the gap between the wheat import price (252 dinars per ton) and the subsidised price sold to mills (JOD139 dinars).

Other Decisions The Cabinet renewed the appointments of Nayel Adwan and Noah Shayab to the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission Board, appointed Zaid Qadi and referred Ayman Daraiseh to retirement.

//Petra// AK