BY SAMI KOHEN
MILLIYET- Following Palestinian President Yasser Arafat’s death, the transition period is moving calmly, at least for now. There were concerns that a great political power vacuum would emerge and cause quarrels and confusion, but they proved baseless. Likewise, Rawhi Fattuh has sat in Arafat’s place for 60 days. Meanwhile, the problem of where to bury Arafat was solved calmly. In short, the transition period is moving with the seriousness and responsibility of a state. However, we shouldn’t forget that this is a temporary transition and that the actual new administration will start in two months. Now there are two problems. Firstly, will elections be held? Secondly, if yes, who will win them? The ability to hold regular democratic elections depends upon Israel. The Sharon government might hinder these elections for security reasons. Accordingly, the international community should ensure that the Palestinian polls are carried at lawfully and fairly.
Who wins the elections is important as well. If the new leader favors solutions and is a realistic politician, jump-starting the peace process will be easier. In addition, reforming the Palestinian administration democratically and reopening the way to peace depends on brave steps from both Israel and Palestine. Israel is expected to release Palestinian prisoners, and Palestine should enforce a cease-fire and end the violence. If this can be done, a new peace process might be started by the US, European Union, Russia and the United Nations. Turkey can have a constructive role in this period. We have always supported Palestine, and Turkish leaders had good relations with Arafat. Of course these relations and support will continue. Turkey’s geographical and political position gives it an opening to actively contribute to this critical transition period. Indeed, Turkish diplomacy can make it easier to hold elections, establish security and start a new peace initiative. Now we have such an opportunity.