Jordan's Constitutional Monarchy on HoldFriday August 26, 2005 8:31 AM
AP Photo AMM101
By JAMAL HALABY
Associated Press Writer
AMMAN, Jordan (AP) - Jordan's reform-minded, U.S.-educated monarch,
King Abdullah II, follows two separate lines when discussing the idea
of surrendering some powers and moving his kingdom toward a
European-style constitutional monarchy.
On American talk shows, Abdullah has sounded at ease with fundamental
change. But back home, he says the time is not yet ripe as Jordan faces
new extremist pressures and attacks.
<snip>
During a U.S. visit earlier this year, Abdullah told a television
interviewer in his British-accented English that he was "absolutely"
open to moving Jordan toward a constitutional monarchy. Upon emerging
from a White House meeting he was even more specific, saying the
"crown can take a step back and the people can take a step forward."
That's the answer when he's abroad. But it's a different story at
home, where Abdullah is also battling an underground militancy bent
on killing him.
Full article:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,1280,-5234958,00.html