Earlier this week, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas instructed the release of the draft constitution for a Palestinian state, as reported by the PA’s official news agency, WAFA.
According to The Jerusalem Post, the complete draft of the constitution, in Article III, disregards Jewish connections to Jerusalem, designating it as the “capital of the State of Palestine, along with its political, cultural, spiritual, and educational center, as well as its national emblem,” while vowing to safeguard its religious identity and Islamic and Christian sacred sites.
This article advocates for the preservation of Jerusalem’s “legal, political, and historical status,” asserting that any actions that alter its character or historical identity are invalid under international law.
Article IV establishes Islam as the official religion of the Palestinian state, stating that Islamic Sharia will be the “primary source of legislation,” although it acknowledges Christianity’s privileged status and rights.
Per Article LXXVI, the president is required to “swear by God Almighty” upon assuming office. Additionally, Article CXXXII stipulates that disputes regarding Sharia must be resolved by Sharia and religious courts.
Article XVII mandates “free and fair periodic elections” as a constitutional right and foundation of democratic representation. Also, Article LXXIV limits the presidential terms to a maximum of two consecutive five-year terms.
