Two separate periods serving as the Prime Minister of Jordan defined the political career of Marouf al-Bakhit. Appointed by King Abdullah II during times of significant regional volatility, his tenure focused on national security, domestic reform efforts, and the management of civil unrest. His background spanned military service, diplomatic missions, and academic engagement before entering the highest levels of government.
Military Service and Early Education
Born in 1947 in Mahis, al-Bakhit began his professional path by joining the Jordanian Armed Forces in 1964. He graduated from the Royal Military College in 1966 as a Second Lieutenant. His military career spanned over three decades, concluding with his retirement in 1999 at the rank of Major General. Alongside his service, he pursued extensive academic qualifications, including a bachelor's degree in General Management and Political Science from the University of Jordan. Later, he earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern California in 1982 and a PhD in Strategic Studies from King's College London in 1990, writing his thesis on Egyptian air defense strategy.
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In November 2005, King Abdullah II appointed al-Bakhit as Prime Minister, tasking him with stabilizing the country following the Amman bombings that killed 60 people earlier that month. Throughout his first term, which lasted until November 2007, he focused on maintaining national security. He also served as a member of the delegation involved in the Jordan-Israel peace treaty. After two years characterized by parliamentary reform efforts and a debated election, he resigned from the position.
Second Premiership and Later Years
Following two weeks of public demonstrations, the King reappointed al-Bakhit as Prime Minister on 1 February 2011 to replace Samir Rifai. This second mandate saw promises to decentralize authority, adjust election laws, and expand the rights of political parties while upholding the 1994 Jordan-Israel peace treaty. He held the office until October 2011, when he resigned and was succeeded by Awn Al-Khasawneh. In his later years, al-Bakhit served as a senator of Jordan from 2020 until 2024. Prior to his government roles, he had also lectured in political science at Mutah University.
Fast facts
- Born: 1947, Mahis
- Died: 2023, Jordan
- Military Rank: Major General
- Prime Minister of Jordan: 2005-2007, 2011
- Senator of Jordan: 2020-2024
- PhD: King's College London, 1990
- Languages: Arabic, English
- Tribal Affiliation: Al-Abbadi Tribe
Questions readers ask
What was the academic focus of Marouf al-Bakhit?
He held a PhD in Strategic Studies from King's College London, with a thesis focusing on the evolution of Egyptian air defense strategy between 1967 and 1973.
Which positions did he hold in the Jordanian government?
He served twice as Prime Minister in 2005-2007 and 2011, and was a senator from 2020 to 2024.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Jordan (2005–2007)
- Prime Minister of Jordan (2011–2011)
- senator of Jordan (2020–2024)
- Educated at University of Jordan and University of Southern California
