Jordan: Civic society institutions, including the country's 14 professional associations and over 30 political parties, should abide by the Public Assembly Law or face legal prosecution, Amman Governor Abdul Karim Malahmeh stressed on Tuesday. “Nobody is allowed to violate the law,” the Jordan News Agency, Petra, quoted Malahmeh as saying.

The law states that organisers of public events such as rallies, marches or demonstrations, should acquire a written consent from the local governor three days in advance. Exceptions include tribal-related events and those that deal with professional matters.

Malahmeh said some individuals totally disregarded the Public Assembly Law by making political speeches from the podium of a mosque. “They did not obtain prior consent and were therefore referred to the attorney general,” he added.

Ties between the government and Islamists have been highly charged over the past couple of years. Tensions reached new heights following a clash last year between the party and Minister of Interior Samir Habashneh over his perceived clampdown on their activities. A recent disagreement between the 17-member IAF parliamentary bloc and the minister over measures taken to curb professional associations' “illegal political” activities further heightened the tension.' (Jordan Times)