The speaker reviewed democratic dimensions in
Jordanian political life since the founding of Transjordan
in 1921 to the elections of 1989, which marked the
beginning of a new democratic era. He focused on the
indicators and significance of political participation.
He pointed out that one result was that martial
law and emergency law were annulled. Democratic
legislation was introduced, such as the laws on political
parties and publications. By the end of 1996, more
than 25 political parties were licensed, along with
partisan newspapers and a great number of independent
newspapers.
The legislative elections of 1993 and all developments
that influenced parliament in the period 1993–1997
were also assessed.