Discussions regarding the timeline for Syria’s elections highlight significant concerns about the potential consolidation of power by HTS during the transitional period. Ahmad al-Sharaa suggested that elections could take four years, prompting debate on the realistic nature of this timeline amidst Syria’s fragmented political state. Experts emphasize the necessity of inclusive governance and the return of displaced Syrians to ensure a meaningful electoral process.
The recent comments by Ahmad al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), regarding Syria’s future electoral timeline have sparked a robust debate among Syrians and legal scholars. In an interview, al-Sharaa indicated that new elections and the drafting of a constitution could take up to four years, raising concerns about the implications for political transition in a country reeling from over a decade of conflict. Many experts fear that the timeline could be exploited to solidify HTS’s grip on power during a critical transitional phase. Anwar al-Bunni, co-founder of the Syrian Center for Legal Studies, deemed the timeline both realistic and necessary, particularly in light of the vast number of Syrians displaced due to the ongoing war. He emphasized that the return of refugees is essential for a meaningful political process, advocating for the establishment of an independent electoral commission and political parties to facilitate an inclusive governance structure. However, some activists caution that should the transitional period be manipulated to entrench HTS’s Islamist agenda, it could lead to a new form of authoritarianism. In contrast, they argue, genuine inclusion of diverse Syrian voices in the governance process might alleviate concerns about the timeline. As HTS has initiated a caretaker government until early 2025, the forthcoming national dialogue conference is anticipated to set the stage for the transitional government, highlighting the need for a legal framework during this precarious phase. The conversation reveals that while many Syrians are not overly concerned about the time it takes to establish a new governance system, they are vigilant about HTS’s intentions in the transitional landscape.
The discussion surrounding Syria’s electoral timeline is rooted in the broader context of the country’s prolonged civil conflict, which has seen millions of Syrians displaced and the political landscape deeply fragmented. The calls for a new constitution and elections reflect the ongoing struggle for a participatory governance system, particularly in light of HTS’s emergence as a significant power player following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad’s regime. With the human toll of the conflict evident in the displacement of over 14 million Syrians, the feasibility of a democratic transition becomes essential for the future of Syria’s governance. Furthermore, the fragile state of existing institutions and the historical dominance of authoritarian constructs in the region create a complex backdrop for any proposed transitions to democracy.
In conclusion, the proposed timetable for Syria’s elections reflects both the urgency and the complexities of establishing a functioning political system post-conflict. Experts agree that a span of three to five years is necessary for Syrians to adequately prepare for participation in the democratic process, provided that efforts are made to ensure an inclusive, transparent, and fair governance structure. The scrutiny on HTS and its political maneuvers during this period is paramount, as the future of Syrian governance hinges on the ability to include diverse opinions and representatives during the transitional phase. The outcome of the upcoming national dialogue conference will play a critical role in shaping Syria’s path forward.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
