Test for the government

Barely a few weeks in office and Prime Minister Omar Razzaz is already facing the biggest challenge yet to his government, when the so-called "tobacco factory scandal” surfaced, presumably all of a sudden.

This major corruption case will no doubt tax the government's time and energy until it comes to a head after the thirty-odd suspects are brought to justice and the case comes to a close. For starter’s, the prime minister decided on Monday to refer the case to none other than the State Security Court (SSC), thus signalling that he means business in getting to the bottom of this major corruption case. Taking the regular legal route through the prosecution office of the Jordan Customs Department would have led to tortuous and long legal procedures that may take years of trials and tribulations. The SSC offers a more expeditious trial.

It is now suspected that many heads will roll after a full investigation is conducted and concluded. State Minister for Media Affairs Jumana Ghunaimat confirmed on Monday that warrants have been issued for the arrest of the already identified suspects and a travel ban has been issued for them as well. She hinted, though, that the case could be bigger than first thought, and more possible suspects could be charged as the investigation continues.

Razzaz declared on Monday that there will be no immunity for any corrupt person and that no one is above the law. The price tag of this case, which involves forging the trademark of a legitimate cigarette company to manufacture cigarettes in a concealed factory and then smuggle them to the market, could be as high as JD150 million.

All that one can say for now is “bravo” to the government for bringing this major corruption case out in the open as a show of determination to combat corruption and graft in all their forms. This case could be the test of the government's will to combat corruption and get to the bottom of major corruption cases, no matter who could be involved in the probe. Final judgement has to await the final chapter of this cause célèbre.