Maysoon Khasawneh becomes Jordan’s first female independent district governor

Interior Minister Mazen Farraya appointed Maysoon Khasawneh as the new district governor of Wasatiyyeh in Irbid, making her the first woman to hold an independent district governor position within Jordan’s Ministry of Interior, Jordan News Agency (Petra) reported.

The appointment is part of a wider administrative reshuffle aimed at reshaping public sector leadership. It underscores the ministry’s growing focus on empowering women in high-level government roles and advancing gender equality across state institutions.

Khasawneh will assume one of the most pivotal roles in the country’s civil administration structure. As district governor, she will serve as the top executive authority in Wasatiyyeh, responsible for overseeing all government operations within the district, from security coordination to public service delivery and development planning. The role also involves working closely with local communities, dignitaries, and civic institutions to address district needs.

The Interior Ministry described the decision as a “milestone in building a modern administrative culture” and emphasized that it reflects a governance model based on merit, equal opportunity, and inclusivity.

Khasawneh’s appointment also aligns with Jordan’s broader strategy to modernize the public sector and encourage diverse, forward-thinking leadership across all levels of government.