Afghans to debate new constitution
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Soldiers of the Afghan National Army patrol near the loya jirga
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Afghanistan is on a long, difficult road to democracy and recovery. CNN's Christiane Amanpour reports. (December 10)
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(CNN) -- Security will be tight this weekend in Kabul when 500 Afghan delegates convene for a loya jirga -- or grand assembly -- to debate a draft constitution submitted by Hamid Karzai's government.
In addition to local politicians, there will be representatives from the Afghan diaspora at the loya jirga, which begins Sunday.
The 50-page draft constitution envisions an Islamic republic with a legislature consisting of two chambers as well as a strong president, who also will serve as commander-in-chief of the military.
"We are for the first time in the history of the nation moving to democracy, and our rival factions are sitting together to work toward democracy and create a government, this on the election presentation," said Mahmoud Karzai of the Afghan American Chamber of Commerce.
"These are great moments."
But some delegates are more pessimistic.
"Since the Bonn process, there have been many jirgas so we aren't that optimistic about this one," said delegate Mehmood Khan.
"A lot of decisions have already been taken. I can only hope that in this one, the decision of the people is the one that prevails."
Critics say the draft constitution gives one person too much control, since the president would appoint one-third of the legislature's upper house, as well as top judges and national security officials.
They say a parliamentary system, with a prime minister selected by the legislature, would be more effective.
President Karzai says his decision to remain in power would depend on which governing system is chosen.
"If there is a parliamentary system, I will not be a candidate," Karzai said. "But if the system is presidential then I will put myself forward. The draft of the constitution will be handed over to the delegates during the loya jirga and they will decide."
Another issue to be decided is the role of women. The draft constitution ensures a woman's right to an education and to a role in governing the country. Under the previous Taliban regime, women were oppressed.
It is not clear when the loya jirga will reach its decisions. Estimates range from 10 days to several weeks.
"The shorter the better because each day takes $50,000," Karzai said.
If the delegates can hammer out a constitution, presidential elections will be held in June, followed by legislative elections.
-- From CNN International Desk Editor Eli Flournoy
