His Majesty King Abdullah on Wednesday announced plans to decentralise local government by redrawing provincial administrations that are to be run by publicly elected local councils.

Emphasising that political, social, economic and administrative development is an integrated process, King Abdullah said it is “essential to expand the base of public participation in that process.”

In a televised address to the nation, the King said a review of the current administrative divisions would yield “development areas, or regions,” each consisting of various governorates.

He explained that “each region will have a local council directly elected by its people to work hand-in-hand with the elected municipal councils in the governorates to set priorities and draw up plans and programmes related to their respective regions.”

The King stated that “these tasks should no longer be exclusive to central decision makers because the people of each region are more aware of their interests and needs.”

King Abdullah announced that a Royal Committee would be formed to study the various aspects of such an approach and to set the appropriate mechanisms for its implementation.

In his brief address, King Abdullah also congratulated the Palestinian people on conducting a successful presidential election. Speaking on behalf of Jordanian citizens, the King reaffirmed Jordan's support for the Palestinian people to realise their legitimate national aspirations.

The King also urged all citizens of Iraq to go to the polls on Sunday.

“The elections are the only realistic way for the Iraqis to achieve security and stability, rebuild their country, and ensure that Iraq regains its natural and special status within the region,” King Abdullah said.