Jordanian lawmakers gathered to perform Dhuhr (noon) prayers inside the main chamber of parliament on November 3, shortly before a scheduled session to elect members of the permanent bureau.
In an unusual scene, several members of parliament stood together inside the chamber to perform the congregational prayer, with MP Dr Ahmed Al-Raqab leading the gathering. The lawmakers chose to use the parliamentary chamber as a place of prayer while waiting for the proceedings to begin.
MP Dima Tahboub later explained that the chamber doors had been closed ahead of the expected arrival of King Abdullah II. As lawmakers were unable to leave the chamber, they decided to perform their prayers inside rather than miss the designated prayer time. The incident took place amid preparations for an important parliamentary session, highlighting how lawmakers managed their religious obligations alongside their official duties. Rather than delaying the prayer, they gathered within the chamber and observed it together.
The moment drew attention to the intersection of religious practices and parliamentary life in Jordan. It also offered a glimpse into how members of the country's legislature accommodate their personal and religious commitments while carrying out their responsibilities in public office.
