This significance stems from the King's position as Head of State, as stipulated in Article (30) of the Constitution, and as a symbol of national unity and institutional continuity. Governments come and go, and parliamentary councils change, while the institution of the monarchy remains a pillar of stability and a unifying national reference for Jordanians across their diverse social and political orientations. The Throne Speech is the principal constitutional occasion where His Majesty addresses Parliament and meets with representatives of the legislative authority. He personally delivers it despite Article (79) of the Constitution allowing him to delegate the Prime Minister or a minister for this purpose, reflecting the special relationship between the Head of State and the nation's representatives and embodying the nature of Jordan’s parliamentary monarchy.
The Constitution specifically designates this occasion for Parliament, as Article (79) mandates that the Throne Speech be delivered before both the Senate and House of Representatives convened together. This joint session carries implications beyond formality, uniting the elected chamber representing popular will and the appointed chamber comprising national expertise and competencies, to hear a unified royal vision for the country's future. It also underscores the importance of cooperation and role complementarity between the two chambers in exercising their constitutional competencies, within the principle of bicameralism in the legislative authority.
The attendance of senior state figures and representatives of state institutions carries constitutional implications regarding state unity and institutional role integration, while preserving each authority’s independence. The government is responsible for implementing public policies, the judiciary independently fulfills its role in upholding justice, while the armed forces and security agencies safeguard the nation and its stability. The presence of ambassadors and foreign diplomatic representatives holds significant diplomatic weight, allowing them direct insight into Jordan’s positions on regional and international issues, foremost among them the steadfast stance on the Palestinian cause, and enabling the transmission of Jordan’s foreign policy messages to the international community.
The constitutional importance of the Throne Speech does not end with its delivery. The Constitution requires both the Senate and House of Representatives to submit a formal reply addressing it. This response should not be limited to expressions of gratitude, but rather serve as an opportunity to demonstrate the chambers’ engagement with national priorities. It falls upon the government to translate these priorities into programs and policies, particularly in the areas of water security and economic modernization, which His Majesty specifically highlighted. Meanwhile, Parliament is tasked with monitoring government performance and exercising its legislative and oversight authorities.
Notably, His Majesty opened his speech by condemning terrorism, remembering the martyrs of Karak, and calling for a minute of silence in their honor—reflecting the ongoing royal attention to the crime and its profound national impact. Furthermore, praising the armed forces, security agencies, and the awareness of Jordanian citizens underscores that combating terrorism extends beyond security measures, requiring societal cohesion and rejection of extremism, and linking it to the state’s duty to protect public security and social peace within the framework of the rule of law.
The speech included other constitutional messages, most prominently reaffirming that the nation is the source of all powers as stated in Article (24) of the Constitution, the responsibility of Parliament to protect public interest and oversee the government, and the importance of parliamentary conduct and discourse. His Majesty also emphasized the rule of law and freedom of expression, stating that public office is a responsibility to serve citizens, not a privilege that exempts its holder from accountability.
The enduring importance of the Throne Speech lies in the responsibilities it entails, extending beyond the ceremonial opening of the parliamentary session and placing public authorities before the obligation to seriously address its contents. The true value of this constitutional occasion does not lie merely in the royal messages and directives it conveys, but in the ability of state institutions to translate them into decisions, policies, and tangible achievements felt by citizens in their daily lives, thereby strengthening their confidence in their national institutions.
* Professor of Constitutional Law, Faculty of Law, University of Jordan
