Islamists say new Jordan premier is ‘not a reformist’

KING Abdullah II of Jordan sacked the government yesterday after weeks of protests, but his choice of replacement premier failed to satisfy the powerful Islamist opposition’s demands for reform.

The king named Maruf Bakhit, 64, to replace Samir Rifai, 43, with orders to carry out “true political reforms,” the palace said, but the Islamists criticised the choice, saying he is not a reformist.

“Bakhit’s mission is to take practical, quick and tangible steps to launch true political reforms, enhance Jordan’s democratic drive and ensure safe and decent living for all Jordanians,” a palace statement said.