Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s transitional president, announced that presidential elections are expected to take four to five years. This timeline is due to the need for significant infrastructure rebuilding and updated electoral data. Sharaa plans to host a national conference for inclusive political dialogue and aims to draft a new constitution within three years.
On Monday, Ahmed al-Sharaa of Syria announced that it would take approximately four to five years to hold presidential elections. This timeline was disclosed for the first time since he assumed the role of transitional president the previous week. Sharaa, who previously led the Islamist rebel faction responsible for the swift overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad in December, emphasized the need for substantial infrastructure improvements prior to the elections. He explained, “I estimate that the period will be between four to five years until elections because there is a need for a vast infrastructure, and this infrastructure needs to be re-established and establishing it needs time.”
Sharaa further highlighted that before elections can occur, the authorities must consolidate population data to refresh the electoral registry, stating, “Without this matter, any elections held will be doubted.” He asserted that international standards regarding transitional periods would be applied in Syria’s context, including protocols that pertain to the presidential position during this time. However, he did not detail the specific international standards which informed his proposed timeline.
Upon his appointment as transitional president, Sharaa was bestowed with the authority to form a temporary legislative council while the existing constitution was suspended. He articulated intentions for a political transition that will encompass a national conference aimed at establishing an inclusive government. Sharaa mentioned that a preparatory committee would be constituted to engage with the populace throughout Syria, to “invite those we think represent the Syrian people in general.”
This national conference is expected to address significant issues facing the country and culminate in a final statement serving as groundwork for a constitutional declaration. Sharaa also indicated that the drafting of a new constitution might require an extensive period, potentially up to three years, as he previously mentioned in December.
The announcement by Ahmed al-Sharaa marks a significant development in Syria’s political landscape following the uprising against President Bashar al-Assad. Sharaa’s leadership role as transitional president comes at a critical juncture as the country aims to rebuild its governance following years of conflict. His focus on establishing infrastructure and updating electoral data suggests that the pathway to stable governance will involve thorough preparations.
In summary, Ahmed al-Sharaa has projected a timeline of four to five years for Syria to conduct presidential elections. His remarks underscore the priority of establishing the necessary infrastructure and updating electoral registries to ensure credible and recognized elections. The transitional government is set to host a national conference for inclusive dialogue, aiming to shape the future constitutional framework of Syria.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
