Jordanians Head to the Polls Amid Gaza Conflict and Economic Struggles

Jordanians are set to cast their votes on September 10 in a parliamentary election overshadowed by the ongoing war in Gaza and significant economic challenges. This election marks a pivotal moment as it is the first to be held under a new electoral law passed in January 2022, which increased the number of parliamentary seats, reserved more positions for women, and lowered the minimum age for candidates.

With over 5.1 million registered voters in a nation of approximately 11.5 million, the elections come at a time of heightened tensions. Just days before the polls, a violent incident occurred at the Jordan-Israel border, where a Jordanian man killed three Israeli guards, marking a rare escalation in violence that has further complicated the political landscape.

The atmosphere leading up to the election is marked by widespread frustration among voters, particularly concerning the economic situation. Many citizens express skepticism about the potential for meaningful change, with some questioning the efficacy of the electoral process itself. "Elections are crucial and necessary. They are our chance to express ourselves and select our representatives in parliament, even though I doubt there will be any real change," remarked Issa Ahmed, a 65-year-old retiree.

The war in Gaza has deeply affected public sentiment, especially among the substantial portion of the Jordanian population of Palestinian descent. Many voters feel that the daily reports of violence and destruction in Gaza overshadow the elections, leading to a sense of helplessness and disillusionment. "What is happening in Gaza makes us feel pain, helplessness, humiliation, and degradation," stated Omar Mohammed, a civil servant, reflecting the emotional toll of the conflict.

Candidates in the election are acutely aware of the Gaza situation, with some using it as a focal point in their campaigns. Saleh Armouti, a candidate from the Islamic Action Front (IAF), emphasized that the Palestinian cause is central to the elections, suggesting that the ongoing conflict may influence voter turnout. However, there are concerns that the war could lead to increased voter apathy, with some analysts predicting a low turnout similar to the record-low participation seen in the 2020 elections.

The economic backdrop is equally troubling, as Jordan's tourism sector, which constitutes about 14% of the nation’s GDP, has suffered significantly due to the conflict. With public debt nearing $50 billion and unemployment rates hovering around 21%, many citizens are more focused on their immediate economic concerns than the electoral process.

Despite these challenges, the elections are seen as an opportunity for political expression. The new electoral law aims to reduce the influence of tribal affiliations in favor of a more party-oriented approach, with 41 seats reserved for political parties. However, analysts suggest that traditional tribal and pro-government candidates may still dominate the parliament.

As polling stations open, the outcome of this election will not only reflect the current political climate in Jordan but also the broader implications of the Gaza conflict on the kingdom's stability and governance.