Amman, Feb 15 (Petra) – The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities affirmed that all procedures related to the extension of the interim committee managing the Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents (JSTA) were carried out within legal frameworks after obtaining the necessary legal consultation and coordinating with relevant authorities.

In a statement to the Jordan News Agency (Petra) on Saturday, the ministry stressed that these measures were taken to serve the best interests of the JSTA and its members while ensuring a transparent and fair electoral process.

Addressing claims that the ministry violated JSTA regulations by extending the temporary committee’s mandate, the ministry clarified that forming the committee falls under the authority of the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, as stipulated by JSTA’s bylaws. The committee, which includes members from the general assembly, was initially formed to oversee the association’s affairs until elections could be held.

The extension of the committee’s tenure, the ministry explained, was requested through an official written appeal from the advisory committee, which consists of representatives from various tourism offices. The request was based on the need to ensure legal and regulatory stability governing the elections and to allow for proper representation of all categories under the newly amended bylaws once enacted.

The proposed amendments to JSTA’s bylaws are currently under review by the relevant government authorities. The Cabinet has already approved the mandating reasons for the draft amendments, which have been referred to the Legislation and Opinion Bureau for finalization. The ministry emphasized that these amendments were developed through extensive consultations with all concerned parties, including JSTA representatives, and are nearing completion.

Regarding the impact of these amendments on elections, the ministry pointed out that the proposed changes affect board formation and candidacy conditions, including limitations on the number of consecutive terms a board member may serve. Consequently, postponing the elections would prevent the need for two consecutive elections within a short period, aligning the process with the new legal framework expected to be issued within the first four months of the year.

The ministry emphasized that the decision to extend the temporary committee’s term was based on legal opinion, which deemed the postponement a reasonable and justifiable measure that serves the general assembly’s interests. As such, the extension does not conflict with any regulations and was made in accordance with practical and organizational necessities to ensure a smooth transition under the upcoming amendments.

//Petra// AF
15/02/2025 22:49:35