Article 7 The Board of Commissioners (a) The Board of Commissioners shall consist of seven members, including the Chairman of the Board and his Deputy. They shall have expertise and specialization in the fields of Telecommunications and Information Technology, economy, law, and administration. All members must be natural persons holding the Syrian Arab nationality. (b) The Board's members shall be appointed by Decree, based on a proposal by the Minister, which shall determine their salaries and compensation. At least the Chairman and his deputy shall work full time at the Authority. (c) Notwithstanding paragraph (B) hereof, the Minister shall act as Chairman, following the constitution of the Authority and the formation of the Board, for a transitional period to be determined by the Council of Ministers. (d) The term of office in the Board is four years, renewable once for a similar term. (e) If the office of a member becomes vacant, for any reason, a replacement shall be appointed according to the provisions of this Law. (f) The deputy Chairman shall exercise the function of the Chairman in case of absence of the Chairman for valid reason or [in case the office of the Chairman] becomes vacant Article 8 Board Membership Termination or Expiration The membership of any of the Board members shall not expire and cannot be terminated unless one of the following events occurs: 1) Death. 2) Expiry of the term of office. 3) A member submits his resignation, which is accepted by the Prime Minister. 4) The presence of a conflict of interest as provided herein as well as in the Executive Provisions. 5) Conviction of a crime or dishonest offense. 6) Negligence in performing the tasks and duties assigned to him, as determined by the Council of Ministers. 7) Inability to perform the tasks and duties assigned to him, as determined by the Council of Ministers. 16