AMMAN, Jordan (AP) — Jordan’s royal palace says the king has dissolved his parliament, setting the stage for elections.

Jordan’s government has claimed that the elections emerge from reforms that spared Jordan the Arab Spring uprisings that have toppled four Mideast rulers so far.

Critics charge that the electoral reforms to do not go far enough in neutralizing distortions that ensure parliamentary strength for the supporters of King Abdullah II or curtail his absolute powers.

The palace statement Thursday did not say when the parliamentary elections would take place.

Abdullah said recently a new parliament will elect a prime minister early next year, in response to popular demands. Up to now the king has appointed the premier.