Ramallah:The upcoming elections for the Chambers of Commerce in Palestine remain without a scheduled date, amid ongoing discussions about postponement. The Federation of Palestinian Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture has requested a delay, but this proposal has been met with opposition from Muhammad Zaid Al-Nabali, Vice President of the Ramallah and Al-Bireh Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who argues against the postponement, citing the elections as a fundamental right that should not be hindered.
According to Maan News Agency, the controversy stems from a legal provision that mandates the Minister of Economy to set an election date, as per Article (16) of Decree Law No. (9) of 2011. This law requires the Minister to announce the election date within thirty days following the end of the current board's term. The last elections were held between December 2022 and February 2023, and the current boards' terms are nearing expiration, raising questions about the delay in announcing new elections.
Al-Nabali has emphasized that the request for postponement was not discussed with all chamber councils and members, and he argues that the Federation's position does not reflect the views of all chambers. He insists that elections should proceed as scheduled and that the process should not be influenced by individual interests or the low payment rates of membership fees, which some have cited as a reason for delaying the elections.
The Federation of Chambers has highlighted challenges in Gaza, such as the destruction of chamber headquarters and restrictions on movement, as reasons for the postponement request. They advocate for conducting elections simultaneously in all governorates when conditions improve. Meanwhile, Minister of National Economy Mohammed Al-Amour has indicated that the decision on the election date will be announced when appropriate, with government sources suggesting a potential timeline of January to February 2027.
Al-Nabali has also called for reforms in the composition of chamber councils, advocating for a women's quota to ensure better representation. He argues that women's participation should be supported by organizational measures, rather than relying solely on election outcomes. This proposal requires an amendment to existing regulations before the election process begins, emphasizing the need for broader representation in the private sector.
The ongoing debate underscores the tension between adhering to legal mandates and addressing practical challenges, with the business community awaiting the Ministry of Economy's decision on the election timetable.