Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced a timeline of four to five years for holding presidential elections. This timeline is intended to enable the reconstruction of necessary infrastructure and the consolidation of electoral data. Sharaa is committed to a political transition involving a national conference to establish an inclusive government, adhering to international standards.
In a recent interview, Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, announced that it would take an estimated four to five years to hold presidential elections in the country. This statement marks the first time Sharaa has articulated a timeline since his appointment as transitional president on January 30, following his leadership of the rebel group that removed President Bashar al-Assad in December. Sharaa emphasized the necessity of rebuilding vital infrastructure and updating electoral data to ensure the credibility of the elections.
He indicated that the consolidation of the country’s population data is crucial, warning that elections conducted without this information would lack legitimacy. Sharaa also stated that Syria would adhere to international standards regarding transitional governance, which will include the establishment of an elected presidency and authority once the transition is complete. Although he did not specify the particular international guidelines influencing this timeline, he emphasized the need for a comprehensive political transition.
Since assuming his role, Sharaa has pledged to initiate a political transition process, involving a national conference aimed at creating an inclusive government. He proposed the formation of a preparatory committee to carry out consultations throughout Syria, ultimately inviting representatives of the Syrian populace to partake in discussions about significant national issues. This conference is expected to produce a conclusive statement that will inform a forthcoming constitutional declaration, laying the groundwork for Syria’s future governance.
The announcement by Ahmed al-Sharaa comes as Syria finds itself in a period of significant change following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Following years of civil unrest and warfare, Sharaa aims to outline a pathway for a democratic transition in the country. Given the challenges of rebuilding both political and civil infrastructure, Sharaa’s timeline sets expectations for a gradual recovery and democratic participation. The reference to international norms reflects an effort to legitimize the transitional process in the eyes of both Syrians and the international community. It indicates a desire for a systematic approach to governance and electoral processes during a critical period of reconstruction post-conflict, which is vital for long-term stability in Syria.
Ahmed al-Sharaa’s proposal for a four to five-year timeline for presidential elections emphasizes the intricate process of rebuilding both the infrastructure and governance systems in post-conflict Syria. Establishing a credible electoral system necessitates the consolidation of national data and adherence to international standards. The transitional president’s commitment to forming an inclusive government through a national conference indicates a strategic effort toward a more democratic and representative political framework for the Syrian people.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
