Sunday, September 25, 2016

Muslim Political Movement Fields Christian Candidates

In Jordan's nearing parliamentary elections, the Islamic Action Front is making a historical decision to support four Christians. Never before in Middle Eastern modern elections has an Islamic political platform given its support to Christian politicians. There are two takes on this situation. Some feel that it is an encouraging sign of putting differences aside for the best in Jordan. Others see the combination as an attempt to gain popularity and votes. The Islamic Brotherhood's Manifesto does not have a section on providing protection for minorities, which Christians fall in. The director of Center for Strategic Studies at the University of Jordan, Musa Shteiwi, claims this outreach is all "cosmetic" in nature. The IAF says differently, however. In order to keep up with modern views of citizens, the IAF wants to be able to connect to more groups and offer solutions to corruption that has plagued the government. The election takes place on Tuesday, and will be important to view, as it could set a precedent for neighboring countries in the future.

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Middle-East/2016/0919/In-a-first-for-Middle-East-politics-Christians-and-Islamists-stump-together
Ben Ubert

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