Amman  - King Abdullah II of Jordan on Monday accepted the resignation of royal court chief Bassem Awadallah, according to a royal court statement.

Awadallah, a US-educated economist, was recently the target of attacks by lawmakers and the local press for allegedly advocating the privatization of more Jordanian businesses.

He was also accused of encroaching on the powers of Prime Minister Nader Dahabi and forming a type of "shadow cabinet" at the royal court.

Awadallah, of Palestinian origin, was three years ago forced to step down as finance minister amid pressure by a number of deputies.

He was then accused of making concessions to world bodies such as the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund at the expense of the Jordanian economy.

In a letter to Awadallah, King Abdullah praised his achievements and dedication and told him that he would remain "close" to the royal court. (dpa)