Hundreds of Jordanians protest against prices increase

Hundreds of Jordanians took to the streets on Friday in protest of recent increase in prices and taxes by the government.

Demonstrations took place in several parts in Amman and other governorates.

The largest one was held in downtown Amman near Al Hussein Mosque, where demonstrators called on the government to resign.

The demonstrators also chanted slogans against the government and voiced their rejections of recent increase in taxes and prices of several commodities.

"I am taking part in the demonstration because I think the government is making our life harder by increasing prices and taxes," Mohammad Dmour, one of the demonstrators, told Xinhua.

"The government should focus on combating corruption instead of increasing prices...I work as a teacher and the salary is not enough and we cannot tolerate more taxes," said Dmour.

The rally in downtown Amman was called for by the Islamic Action Front.

The demonstrators also slammed the role of the Lower House.

Early February, the government increased taxes on the telecom sector, the internet and other sectors.

It also increased prices of gasoline and custom fees and taxes on several food items.

The government took the measures to offset the budget deficit. Endit