Draft Constitution of the Republic of Jordan

Public Draft #3

 

Preamble

We, the people of Jordan, united by our shared history, culture, and aspirations for justice, equality, and peace, do hereby declare and establish this Constitution to ensure the principles of democracy, the rule of law, and the inherent dignity and rights of every citizen. This Constitution is founded on the belief that no individual or institution is above the law, and it seeks to create a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

 

Article 1: The State

  1. Jordan is a sovereign, independent, and indivisible Republic.

  2. The Republic of Jordan is a democratic, inclusive, and secular state that guarantees equality and freedom for all its citizens.

  3. The capital of Jordan is Amman, and the official language is Arabic.

 

Article 2: Sovereignty

  1. Sovereignty resides in the people, who are the source of all authority.

  2. No person or group shall claim sovereignty over the people or any part of the state.

 

Article 3: Supremacy of the Constitution

  1. This Constitution is the supreme law of the land. Any law, regulation, or act that contradicts its provisions is null and void.

  2. All citizens, institutions, and government entities are bound by the Constitution.

 

Article 4: Fundamental Rights and Freedoms

  1. Equality Before the Law: All citizens are equal before the law without discrimination based on race, religion, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs.

  2. Freedom of Expression: Every individual has the right to express their opinions freely through speech, writing, or any other form of communication.

  3. Freedom of Assembly: Citizens have the right to peaceful assembly and protest.

  4. Freedom of Religion: Every individual has the right to practice their religion or beliefs freely.

  5. Right to Education and Healthcare: The state guarantees free access to education and healthcare for all citizens.

  6. Right to Security and Privacy: The state shall protect the security and privacy of its citizens from arbitrary intrusion.

 

Article 5: Prohibition of Terrorism and Violence

  1. Terrorism, in all its forms, is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.

  2. The state shall take all necessary measures to prevent and combat terrorism while respecting human rights and the rule of law.

  3. Any individual or group found to be financing, planning, or engaging in acts of terrorism shall be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

 

Article 6: The Rule of Law

  1. The principle that no man or institution is above the law is inviolable.

  2. Government officials, including members of the judiciary and the military, are subject to the same legal standards as ordinary citizens.

  3. Corruption, abuse of power, and any form of nepotism are crimes punishable by law.

 

Article 7: The Structure of Government

Section 1: Legislative Authority

  1. The legislative authority resides in a unicameral Parliament elected by the people.

  2. Members of Parliament shall serve terms of four years and may be re-elected.

  3. Parliament shall draft and approve laws, oversee the executive branch, and represent the will of the people.

Section 2: Executive Authority

  1. The executive authority is vested in the President, elected directly by the people for a term of five years, renewable once.

  2. The President shall appoint ministers, subject to parliamentary approval, to form a government.

  3. The executive branch shall implement laws, manage state affairs, and ensure national security.

Section 3: Judicial Authority

  1. The judiciary is an independent authority that ensures justice, resolves disputes, and interprets the Constitution.

  2. Judges are appointed based on merit and are independent of political influence.

  3. A Constitutional Court shall be established to review the constitutionality of laws and acts of government.

 

Article 8: Elections

  1. All citizens aged 18 and above have the right to vote and stand for election.

  2. Elections shall be free, fair, and conducted under the supervision of an independent electoral commission.

  3. Any act of electoral fraud or interference is a criminal offense.

 

Article 9: Decentralization

  1. The state recognizes the importance of decentralization to ensure efficient governance and equitable development.

  2. Local councils shall be established to manage municipal affairs and development projects.

  3. Local council members shall be elected by the residents of their respective regions.

 

Article 10: National Security and Defense

  1. The Republic of Jordan shall maintain a professional, apolitical, and disciplined military to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

  2. The military is subordinate to civilian authority and the rule of law.

  3. The use of armed forces for internal political purposes is strictly prohibited.

 

Article 11: Budget and Financial Principles

  1. The preparation, approval, and execution of the state budget shall adhere to principles of transparency, accountability, and efficiency.

  2. The annual state budget shall be prepared by the executive branch and submitted to Parliament for approval.

  3. The budget shall outline projected revenues and expenditures, prioritizing education, healthcare, infrastructure, and national security.

  4. The state shall not approve a deficit budget unless extraordinary circumstances justify it, subject to parliamentary oversight.

  5. Independent audits shall be conducted annually to ensure the proper use of public funds and to detect and address any financial irregularities.

  6. Parliament shall have the authority to oversee and scrutinize all financial matters, including public spending and borrowing.

 

Article 12: Amendments to the Constitution

  1. Amendments to the Constitution may be proposed by the President, Parliament, or through a citizen-initiated petition supported by at least 10% of the electorate.

  2. Proposed amendments require the approval of two-thirds of the Parliament and a national referendum.

 

Article 13: Transitional Provisions

  1. Upon the ratification of this Constitution, the monarchy shall be dissolved, and the Republic of Jordan shall be proclaimed.

  2. A transitional government shall be established to oversee the implementation of this Constitution within a period of one year.

  3. All existing laws and regulations shall remain in effect unless they contradict the provisions of this Constitution.

 

Article 14: Final Provisions

  1. This Constitution shall come into effect immediately upon its ratification by a national referendum.

  2. The people of Jordan, through this Constitution, commit to building a peaceful, just, and prosperous society for all.