Jordanian newspapers on Wednesday featured a wide range of opinion pieces touching on politics, economic modernization, and social issues. The most prominent themes included the surge of political rumors in Amman, renewed support for the New City project, calls to empower civil society in the next phase of economic reform, and a revealing discussion about hidden forms of violence against women, especially older women.

Abu Tair: A “season of political rumors” threatens clarity and stability

In Al-Ghad, columnist Maher Abu Tair wrote an extensive commentary titled “The Season of Political Rumors in Amman,” describing an unprecedented wave of speculation surrounding the future of Jordan’s political scene. According to Abu Tair, new scenarios appear “almost daily,” reflecting a wider regional mood of uncertainty.

He detailed the most circulated rumors, including alleged plans to dissolve Parliament under American pressure, purportedly to sideline Islamist lawmakers; alternative narratives claiming the government will resign; and other claims suggesting the parliament will remain but that select MPs—particularly those from the Islamic Action Front—might be targeted.

Abu Tair argued that these scenarios ignore the political and economic costs of such decisions, adding that many rumor-spreaders appear motivated by personal expectations or ambitions. He criticized what he called the “shallow reading” of political reality and warned that the current regional context leaves little room for destabilizing speculation.

He urged a clear official statement to put an end to the confusion, especially as rumors now extend to the election law, the timing of elections, and the possibility of a cabinet reshuffle. Abu Tair concluded that political stability is a national constant, and that the state does not adjust its priorities based on “the mood of individuals.”

Qudamani: The New City is a national development necessity, not just an urban project

In Al-Rai, writer Issam Qudamani devoted his column to defending the New City project, arguing that it is an essential national undertaking shaped by demographic, technological, and urban transformations witnessed over the past two decades.

Qudamani stressed that the project is not merely an urban expansion but a comprehensive development plan designed to stimulate the economy, expand housing options, and generate thousands of jobs, consistent with the directives of the Royal Court and the government’s transformation agenda.

He explained that the New City does not conflict with the idea of developing smaller smart towns around Amman—projects he believes the private sector can take on independently. What matters now, he wrote, is the visible start of construction, which would trigger economic activity, revive the real estate market, mobilize idle capital, and reduce pressure on overcrowded cities.

Qudamani emphasized that rising housing prices, limited urban land, and growing traffic congestion provide ample justification for moving forward. He concluded that the project is “ready, necessary, and deserving of execution,” particularly with robust private-sector participation.

Abu Hammour: Civil society must be central to the next phase of economic modernization

Also in Al-Rai, Dr. Mohammad Abu Hammour highlighted the critical role of civil society organizations in advancing the second phase of Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision. He argued that Jordan is entering a stage where development requires shared responsibility and stronger coordination between government, private institutions, and civil society.

Abu Hammour said civil society can help address poverty, unemployment, social protection gaps, and service quality, while also contributing to monitoring public programs, raising public awareness, and enhancing transparency.

He called for strengthening these organizations by improving their services, ensuring financial sustainability, and expanding volunteer engagement, within a clear legal and regulatory framework. Institutional dialogue between the government and civil society, he wrote, is essential to maximizing development impact.

He concluded that empowering civil society reinforces public trust and reduces pressure on state institutions—an important pillar of Jordan’s modernization path.

Al-Ghazooi: Hidden violence against women targets age, language, and finances

In Al-Dustour, columnist Ramzi Al-Ghazooi highlighted a compelling message sent to him by Fada Radi Al-Aboushi, which shed light on non-traditional forms of violence against women, particularly those over the age of fifty.

Al-Aboushi criticized prevailing social attitudes that diminish a woman’s value as she ages, turning age into a barrier rather than a symbol of experience. She also pointed to harmful everyday language—such as routinely addressing middle-aged women as “auntie”—which carries undertones of belittlement and exclusion.

She further highlighted financial violence, noting that many women see their salaries consumed entirely by family demands, while others are pushed into borrowing to support spouses or children, often ending in disappointment or exploitation.

Al-Ghazooi argued that such behaviors constitute “hidden violence” that is rarely acknowledged despite its deep impact. He urged recognition of these patterns and greater societal responsibility toward combating them.