Ahmed al-Sharaa Announces Timeline for Syria’s Presidential Elections

Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s transitional president, has announced that presidential elections could take place within four to five years. He emphasized the need for developing infrastructure and updating electoral data. Sharaa is tasked with forming a legislative council and initiating consultations for a national conference to establish a new governance framework.

In a recent announcement, Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s newly appointed transitional president following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, disclosed a timeline for the country’s first presidential elections. He indicated that the elections would be held within a span of four to five years, marking the first time he has provided such specifics since assuming office last week, on January 30.

Sharaa, who led the Islamist rebel faction that contributed to Assad’s downfall in early December, emphasized the need for substantial infrastructure development before elections could safely take place. He referenced the necessity of consolidating the population data to update electoral records, stating, “Without this matter, any elections held will be doubted.”

In his televised interview, Sharaa reiterated a commitment to adhering to international standards regarding transitional governance, underscoring the eventual transition to a democratically elected presidency and an elected authority. He did not elaborate on the specific international norms he referenced to formulate this timeline.

As part of his mandate, Sharaa has also been tasked with forming a temporary legislative council during this transitional phase, indicating the suspension of the existing Syrian constitution. He has committed to initiating a political transition that includes a national conference aimed at establishing an inclusive government.

Sharaa mentioned the formation of a preparatory committee to facilitate consultations throughout the nation. This committee would engage various representatives of the Syrian populace to discuss critical issues, ultimately leading to a constitutional declaration that will serve as a foundation for a new governance framework. He had previously noted that formulating a new constitution could take up to three years.

The political landscape in Syria has significantly shifted following the recent overthrow of autocratic leader Bashar al-Assad, with armed factions and transitional leaders now vying for authority. Ahmed al-Sharaa’s election as the transitional president marks a pivotal moment for the country, as he navigates a path toward establishing democratic governance amidst persistent infrastructural challenges and societal upheaval. The timeline for the presidential election he announced seeks to restore some form of political stability after years of conflict and instability.

In summary, Ahmed al-Sharaa’s appointment as Syria’s transitional president has ushered in a proposed timeline for presidential elections, expected to occur within four to five years. His administration’s focus will be on rebuilding essential infrastructure, updating electoral data, and ensuring adherence to international norms for transitional governance. This approach aims to lay the groundwork for a constitutional declaration and a sustainable political transition toward an elected leadership.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com