Amman, Sept. 3 (Petra) – Minister of Political and Parliamentary Affairs, Haditha Al-Khraisha, said today, Tuesday, that the percentage of youth candidates in the upcoming parliamentary elections has reached 6% in local lists and 22% in general party lists, describing this as an important figure in the history of political life.

This came during his sponsorship of the launch of a study titled "Enhancing Youth Participation in General Parliamentary Elections in Jordan: A Qualitative Study in Amman,” which was overseen by Masarat Center and Watan Association for Political Participation.

Al-Khraisha emphasized that institutionalizing youth participation in the electoral process will positively reflect on their issues through programs and constructive ideas presented by political parties under the parliamentary dome.

He added, "We, as Jordanians, are moving toward a truly national day on September 10th, looking forward to further achievements with the main goal being active citizen participation in the elections.”

Al-Khraisha called on citizens to head to the ballot boxes and elect their representatives based on programmatic platforms that meet their aspirations, stressing that "we are facing a historic opportunity to shape a better future and create a programmatic parliament that fulfills all ambitions."

He explained that the Ministry of Political and Parliamentary Affairs is working to build and enhance a culture of political action and instill the principles of civic education, democracy, and the rule of law among citizens of all age groups in cooperation with state institutions, particularly the media.

For his part, Director of Masarat Center, Talal Ghanimat, emphasized the need for youth to take the initiative to increase their participation in elections and encourage their peers to exercise their electoral rights.

Ghanimat stressed that youth are capable of presenting a better vision for Jordan's future and have a significant role in building the country, especially in light of the challenges it faces.

Director of Watan Association, Areej Naseer, called on youth to engage in political and party life and participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections to express their aspirations.

In a panel discussion, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Political and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. Ali Al-Khawaldeh, stated that youth are the primary beneficiaries of political modernization and are a decisive factor in the electoral proces. 

He urged political parties to gain the support of youth for their programs, as they are the most influential in ensuring their success. Al-Khawaldeh noted that the ministry has held over 400 activities to raise awareness and educate youth about the outcomes of the political modernization system.

The study, conducted by researcher Ahmad Badr, recommended enhancing youth political engagement, launching media campaigns to raise awareness, and promoting the participation of persons with disabilities in elections.