Jordan Votes for New Parliament

Jordanians began voting for a new parliament under new rules that are meant to strengthen political parties. The election is being seen as a small step toward democratic reform in the country, where King Abdullah still holds most of the power. The 130-seat parliament has 27 seats reserved for women, Christians and ethnic minorities. It is the first election since 2007 that the largest opposition group, the Muslim Brotherhood, has participated. It boycotted the last two elections, saying the rules favored King Abdullah’s tribal supporters.