King Abdullah of Jordan has bowed to demands for reform, saying future cabinets will be formed according to an elected parliamentary majority. In a televised speech marking his 12th year as Jordan’s ruler, King Abdullah on Sunday promised to relinquish his right to appoint prime ministers and cabinets. It is the first time he has made such a concession publicly to his citizens following six months of protests. King Abdullah added that more reforms would be announced, including new election and political party laws. However, he warned that sudden change could lead to chaos and unrest like in other Arab countries.

Jordanians taking part in the mainly peaceful protests have been demanding more political say and that the monarch loosen his absolute grip on power. These include appointing prime ministers and cabinets.