By Amer Al Sabaileh

There is very much pessimism, among many, about the possibility of a genuine political shift after the coming elections. Logically speaking, the political atmosphere is not in a state for new elections. The price-rises have played a major role in killing the public mood to participate, while the failure to a credible and transparent channel of dialogue, internally, has also contributed to this general dampening of enthusiasm.

In fact, whoever suggests that the mistakes of the previous electoral process of the committed in the last 10 years will not have a negative impact is thoroughly mistaken. It is absurd to expect the situation in Jordan to change in one day. Perhaps the outcome of the elections might not be considered to be a real political change. Many faces from the previous era may reappear; this being is the price for the mistakes which have been committed in the past. The quality of the coming parliament can, potentially, be already foreseen. However, one should recognize that a half empty glass is also half full. The establishment of the Independent Elections Commission (IEC) should be seen as an important step towards achieving transparent and fair elections. Moreover, the actual procedures that the IEC adopted are considered to be a crucial stride towards restoring the credibility of elections among the people: the IEC insisted on the adoption of the International Electoral Standards, voter registration, vote counting, complaints and balloting. Such standards aim to promote uniformity, reliability, consistency, accuracy, and professionalism in the coming elections.

With the above in mind, the real achievement of these elections could be the success of the way in which the electoral process is conducted, with minimal mistakes, and according to transparent international standards. However, in order to achieve even this, a political willingness is essential, especially, in acknowledging mistakes and facing up to those who think that they are above the law. Some cases have been already transferred to the judiciary. Therefore, proof of change on the ground has become a must, if the Jordanian state really is keen to change.

Every Jordanian should appreciate the achievements of the IEC, as it really does represent a concrete step towards meaningful change. Unfortunately however, many parts of the bureaucracy do not seem to be cooperating with the IEC, thus impeding the commission’s work. One might consider such a reaction as analogous to the insertion of a new organ in the body, wherein the immune system’s immediate reaction is to fight against the new implant, considering it to be a foreign body.

* Dr. Amer Al Sabaileh is a professor at the University of Jordan and a political analyst. He contributed this article to Ammon News.
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