Syria's Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa Reveals Schedule for Presidential Elections
Sharaa anticipates a timeframe of four to five years to set up the required infrastructure and revise electoral data prior to conducting elections.
Syria's transitional leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has declared that presidential elections are expected to take place in four to five years.
This marks the first time he has provided a timeline since taking on the position on January 30, 2025.
Sharaa, who spearheaded the campaign that led to the removal of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024, stressed the necessity of rebuilding infrastructure and updating electoral information to guarantee credible elections.
He remarked, "I anticipate that the timeframe will range from four to five years until elections occur, as there is a significant infrastructure to re-establish, and doing so requires time."
He also pointed out the critical role of consolidating demographic data to refresh electoral records, emphasizing that without precise information, any elections conducted would be cast into doubt.
Alongside detailing the election timeline, Sharaa has been authorized to establish a temporary legislative council for the transitional phase, with the Syrian constitution currently suspended.
He has committed to initiating a political transition, which includes organizing a national conference to create an inclusive government.
Sharaa noted that a preparatory committee would be established to conduct consultations throughout Syria, subsequently inviting representatives seen as reflective of the Syrian populace.
The conference aims to address all pivotal issues confronting the nation and develop a concluding statement that will underpin a "constitutional declaration."
Earlier, Sharaa had suggested that the process of drafting a new constitution might take as long as three years.
These updates emerge as Syria navigates its political evolution following the end of Assad's era.
The international community continues to observe the situation closely, underscoring the necessity for an inclusive government and compliance with international standards during the transitional phase.