VIDEO: MPs face backlash for phone use during parliament discussions

For the second consecutive day, several members of the Jordanian Parliament were seen using their personal phones during the session discussing the ministerial statement of Jafar Hassan's government, which will determine whether confidence will be granted or withheld based on its content.

The prolonged use of phones during discussions under the Parliament dome and the circulation of clips on social media sparked significant discontent among many Jordanians over the past 24 hours.

Many argue that using phones during such a crucial session demonstrates a disregard for the rights of Jordanians and a failure to fulfill the legislative and oversight responsibilities of the deputies, who were elected with the backing of their blocs and constituents.

They called on Speaker Ahmad Al-Safadi to enforce internal regulations against those neglecting their duties during sessions and using mobile phones, similar to his earlier decision to apply regulations to those absent from sessions and smokers within the chamber.

Safadi had previously cautioned his colleagues against smoking in the chamber, stating, "Smoking under the dome is prohibited," and urged for a vote to expel any deputy who smokes.

Ninety-one deputies are currently engaged in discussions about the ministerial statement, presenting speeches before the government.

During two oversight sessions on Monday, the Council heard from 43 deputies who stressed the importance of updating the economic vision and improving citizens' living conditions.

Each deputy was allotted 10 minutes to speak, while party blocs were given 15 minutes to discuss the ministerial statement.

The deputies will vote on confidence per Article 53 and paragraph 4 of Article 84 of the Constitution, as well as paragraph 2 of subsection (a) of Article 86 of the internal regulations of the House of Representatives, which outlines the procedures for confidence voting.