jordan pulse -
In the agenda of the government that emerged amid an unconventional electoral context and heightened public expectations, the emphasis was on tangible policies, visions, and approaches rather than mere faces. The government secured parliamentary confidence with a rational and realistic narrative led by Prime Minister Jaafar Hassan, who stated, “We do not promise what we cannot deliver.” However, the first 100 days of its tenure passed swiftly, marked by numerous decisions made amidst public scrutiny and anticipation, all preceding the critical budget discussions.
So, what has the government accomplished, and how should its approach be evaluated?
Beyond notable field visits and Cabinet meetings held in various provinces, the government’s economic decisions during its fourth month reflect a commitment to the same rationality that underpinned its confidence-building. Reversing hastily made previous decisions, which lacked proper impact studies and public consultation, is a distinctive feature of Hassan's administration. The Public Service and Human Resources Law stands out as a current example.
While these measures aim to alleviate citizens’ daily burdens, they also signify a deliberate corrective movement across sectors long strained by unresolved issues affecting citizens, investors, and various industries.
On another front, the government’s economic team, led by Hassan, has demonstrated notable maturity and depth. This is evident in policies such as reducing customs duties on electric vehicles, incentivizing tax and customs settlements, addressing fines in free zones, and restructuring property taxes, licensing fees, and traffic violations. These measures are less about gaining public applause and more about creating an economic stimulus.
Viewing these reforms as mere populist moves to please citizens would be a repetition of past mistakes that deepened mistrust between governments and the public. The over 45 economic decisions taken by this government so far challenge this perception with their pragmatic approach, blending cautious optimism with anticipation.
The government’s bold reopening of stagnant files represents one of its most significant challenges, tackling long-standing issues with decisive actions that benefit citizens, investors, and productivity sectors alike.
Prime Minister Hassan’s dialogues across provinces provide a clear example of the government’s expansive vision for reform. This includes initiatives targeting industrial and agricultural sectors, job creation, economic stimulation, reducing production costs, regulating the labour market, and supporting underprivileged communities through direct, impactful actions. Additionally, efforts to strengthen the social safety net for families in impoverished areas highlight the administration’s commitment to inclusive development.
The evolving relationship between the public and private sectors, once couched in idealistic rhetoric, now poses a genuine challenge. The government’s economic team has repeatedly stressed the importance of fostering a practical partnership that benefits both sectors and contributes to broader economic stimulation efforts.
So far, the government has demonstrated a commitment to swift, well-considered actions addressing urgent needs while laying the groundwork for long-term strategic challenges, such as unemployment, poverty, education reform, labour market demands, and overall productivity. These efforts align with its broader vision for administrative modernization.
The first 100 days of this government’s tenure passed without inflated promises or grandiose optimism disconnected from reality. Instead, the administration has adopted a measured, understated approach. Whether this quiet determination translates into tangible improvements in citizens’ lives and the economy will ultimately determine its success as a lifeline for the future.