Palestinian Elections and Constitutional Reforms Announced Amid Ongoing Conflict
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas declared on Friday that presidential and parliamentary elections will be held in Palestine within a year following the conclusion of the war in Gaza, reports 24brussels.
Abbas stated that he has directed relevant authorities to draft a provisional constitution for the Palestinian state within three months. This document will serve as the foundation for transitioning from the Palestinian National Authority to a sovereign state, incorporating necessary adjustments to electoral laws and other regulations to align with the new constitutional framework.
According to Abbas, eligibility to participate in the upcoming elections will be limited to parties, political groups, and individuals who adhere to the Palestine Liberation Organization’s (PLO) political program, commit to international obligations, and support the two-state solution. Candidates must additionally endorse the Arab Peace Initiative and adhere to principles of “one system, one law, and a single legitimate security force.”
The Palestinian leader emphasized the leadership’s commitment to strengthening international recognition of the State of Palestine and securing full United Nations membership, with the ultimate goal of ending the Israeli occupation and establishing an independent state with East Jerusalem as its capital.
In recent developments, President Abbas extended a peace message to the Israeli people in his speech at the United Nations, celebrating the Jewish New Year and expressing hopes for a peaceful future.
On October 3, the Palestinian Resistance Movement Hamas responded to a proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a potential ceasefire in Gaza. In the wake of these discussions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced plans to implement the first phase of the ceasefire proposal.
The ongoing conflict has had severe humanitarian implications. Since October 2023, a reported 66,288 individuals have been killed, and 169,165 have been injured, predominantly women and children, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The situation continues to escalate as both sides grapple with the complexities of potential negotiations and the dire realities on the ground.
The international community remains focused on achieving lasting peace in the region as parties prepare for upcoming elections and revised governance structures.
