Jordan's Governing System
Jordan’s Constitution
Jordan’s Constitution contains the basic rules that define the shape of the Jordanian state and its system of Government, in addition to the jurisdictions of the powers within that system, their duties and their relation to one another. It also specifies the rights and duties of individuals. The Constitution is the supreme law in Jordan; therefore, no piece of legislation can contravene it, be it laws, regulations, or instructions.
System of Government
The first article in the Jordanian Constitution stipulates that the Jordanian state has a parliamentary system of government with a hereditary monarchy.
The Jordanian political system is based on the principle of separation of the three powers—the executive, legislative and judicial authorities. The Constitution also identifies the duties and tasks of each power, which should be undertaken without encroaching on another authority. The relations among these powers are collaborative, balanced and complementary.
His Majesty the King is the head of state. Under Article 26 of the Constitution, executive power is vested in the King, who exercises powers through ministers.
Moreover, Article 25 of the Constitution stipulates that legislative power is vested in Parliament and the King. The Parliament consists of a Senate and a House of Representatives.
As for the judicial authority, Article 27 stipulates its independence, exercised by the courts of law in their varying types and degrees. All rulings are given in accordance with the law and are pronounced in the name of the King.
