Jordan protesters attacked in capital

Jordanian protesters hold flags and banners during a demonstration organized by a group called itself March 24th Youth Movement in Jordanian capital of Amman, on March 24, 2011

Source: Press TV
http://www.presstv.ir/detail/171544.html

In Jordan, government loyalists have attacked protesters in the capital Amman leaving several demonstrators injured.

Witnesses say security forces stood by as demonstrators were attacked, AFP reported.

Around 2,000 Jordanians gathered for a protest camp at the Interior Circle of Jamal Abdul Nasser Square in Amman, following demonstrations held in the city on Thursday.

At least 35 people were injured when security forces and supporters of King Abdullah II cracked down on the crowd.

Thursday's protest saw the most violence since the demonstrations began three months ago.

The Jordanian Youth Movement used Facebook to organize the protest camp. The group has now reportedly changed its name to Youth of March 24 to mark the beginning of an open-ended demonstration at the main square.

“Today is the dawning of the Jordanian revolution,'' said group spokesman Ziad al-Khawaldeh. “We will not move an inch from here until our demands are met,'' he added.

Jordanians have held protest rallies since January demanding reforms. They are calling for the dissolution of parliament and constitutional amendments.

Their demands include the ouster of newly-appointed Prime Minister Marouf Bakhit and the prosecution of officials accused of corruption and nepotism.

Jordan's opposition also wants to strip the king of some of his powers, specifically in appointing the prime minister.

Jordan's king, who has already offered a series of concessions to end the protests, has reportedly called for an early election by the end of 2011.