Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s new leader, stated that elections could take up to four years to organize and a new constitution might require three years to draft. His comments indicate aspirations for a more democratic governance structure while seeking to reassure minority groups and navigate international relations with Russia and the incoming U.S. administration.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new de facto leader of Syria, has stated that organizing elections in Syria may require up to four years. Additionally, drafting a new constitution could take as long as three years. These remarks were made during an interview broadcast by Saudi state media and mark the first time he has addressed an electoral timetable since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8. Sharaa also indicated that substantive changes could take approximately one year to materialize.
Sharaa, who leads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), emphasized the need for a national dialogue, announcing that HTS would dissolve in such a context. His comments seek to reassure both the local populace and neighboring countries regarding the group’s intentions, as apprehensions remain about the potential for the establishment of an Islamist government. Sharaa’s leadership aims to protect minority groups amidst fears of sectarian violence and governance.
While the removal of the Assad regime has been met with approval from Western powers, lingering uncertainty persists regarding HTS’s approach to governance; whether it will embrace strict Islamic rule or transition towards a democratic framework remains unclear. Sharaa also stressed Syria’s shared strategic interests with Russia, particularly about military bases, which will be subject to further negotiations. Additionally, he expressed hope that the incoming U.S. administration would consider lifting sanctions against Syria.
The current political situation in Syria follows an extensive civil war that lasted over a decade, culminating in the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. This change in leadership, marked by the rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa and his organization, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, raises critical questions regarding Syria’s governance structure and the future of its political landscape. The conflicting interests of foreign powers, such as Russia and Turkey, add complexity to the transitional period. Historically, HTS has undergone a transformation, distancing itself from its past affiliations with extremist organizations like al-Qaeda and the Islamic State. As the de facto government, HTS seeks to reassure both the local population and the international community of its commitment to protecting minority rights and maintaining stability amid potential sectarian tensions. This political transition poses challenges and opportunities for re-establishing governance based on the aspirations of the Syrian people and addressing the intricate dynamics of regional politics.
In summary, Ahmed al-Sharaa has outlined a lengthy process for organizing elections and drafting a new constitution in Syria, spanning several years. His leadership aims to navigate the complex post-war landscape, with assurances of protecting minority rights and prospective negotiations with foreign nations, particularly Russia and the United States. The transformation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham into a more moderate governing entity remains crucial during this transitional phase, as Syria seeks to redefine its political direction in the wake of Assad’s regime.
Original Source: www.france24.com
