Abbas Formalizes Leadership Transition Process for PA Presidency

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas issued a constitutional declaration on Wednesday outlining the process for succession in the event the presidency of the Palestinian Authority (PA) becomes vacant. The declaration designates the Chairman of the Palestinian National Council (PNC) as the interim president until new elections can be held.

The declaration was issued amid growing speculation about succession plans in the PA and concerns over political continuity. It stipulates that if the PA presidency becomes vacant while the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) is inactive, the PNC chairman will assume the role for a maximum of 90 days. During this period, free and direct elections must be conducted in accordance with the Palestinian Elections Law.

“If elections cannot be held within the 90-day period due to force majeure, the Palestinian Central Council may extend the interim period only once for an additional term,” the declaration specifies.

Under the new declaration, Rawhi Fattouh, the current chairman of the PNC, would step in as the interim PA president. The PNC is the legislative and decision-making body of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), which represents Palestinians globally.