Sher Khan Shaheer
The Council of Presidential Candidates once again reiterates its call on President Ghani to step down on May 22 as his tenure ends and handover the power to a caretaker government.
The presidential hopefuls on Tuesday submitted a plan to the government in which they had explained the ways for transfer of power to a caretaker government and issues related to the upcoming presidential elections that are slated for September 28.
The council, made of 12 presidential runners, says if President Ghani wants to lead the government after May 22, he has to pull out of the race for the presidency, warning that if he tries to continue, in their words his illegal acts, they will establish consensus for forming a caretaker government by themselves.
According to them, a council contains representatives from political parties, candidates, national assembly, Ulema, Commission for Overseeing the Implementation of the Constitution, Human Rights Commission, civil society and lawyers association will select the leader of the new government.
They say President Ghani can also have his candidate for the caretaker government.
The runners warned that they will use all legal and civil means at their disposal if the President refuses to accept their demands.
“Our actions and intentions will not disorder public order and will not undermine the capability of our security and defense forces,” Atmar said.
“First, we will talk with the leaders to accept our proposed plan and it should find a solution and then we will try to increase public awareness regarding the issue,” Atmar said.
A caretaker government suggested by the candidates should be the supporter of peace talks, Atmar said.
The presidential palace, however, rejects the council’s suggestions, saying that political parties and figures have no right to interpret the constitution.
Haroon Chakhansuri, a spokesman to the President, said in a tweet that any movement on so-called “caretaker government” is in contravention of the Constitution and the Republic system in Afghanistan.
He said the suggestion by the presidential candidates – on the establishment of a caretaker government – has no legal base.
Chakhansuri said the Supreme Court is the only source for interpretation of the Constitution. “Political parties and individuals cannot interpret the Constitution in their favor,” Chakhansuri said.
He mentioned that all gatherings and protests should be held in line with the country’s laws.
Based on the Constitution, Ghani’s tenure ends on May 22, but On April 22, the Supreme Court of Afghanistan approved the extension of President Ashraf Ghani’s tenure until the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for September 28.