Syria’s interim leader signed a temporary constitution establishing Islamist rule for five years. This constitution retains some provisions from the previous regime while introducing protections for freedoms and a separation of powers. A recent deal with Kurdish authorities aims to unify armed forces. The timeline for a full constitutional transition could take up to five years, with international sanctions remaining in place pending progress toward an inclusive political system.
Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, has signed a temporary constitution that establishes Islamist rule for five years during a critical transition period. This decision follows the ousting of Bashar al-Assad in December by a rebel faction, and Sharaa is optimistic that this constitutional declaration will initiate a new era of justice and mercy in Syria, replacing the previous regime’s oppression.
Despite the end of Assad’s over 50-year rule being welcomed by many, skepticism prevails among religious and ethnic minorities. These groups express concerns about the new Islamist leadership’s intentions and their capability to manage power effectively in Damascus.
Abdulhamid Al-Awak, a member of the drafting committee for the temporary constitution, disclosed that it retains previous provisions requiring the head of state to be Muslim and Islamic law to guide jurisprudence. However, he emphasized that it also includes protections for freedom of expression and media, alongside establishing an essential separation of powers.
The constitution grants the president extraordinary authority to declare a state of emergency while striving to balance social security and individual freedoms amidst Syria’s turbulent political landscape. Although a committee to create a permanent constitution is to be appointed, questions linger regarding the inclusivity of this new governance framework.
Sharaa recently achieved a significant agreement with U.S.-backed Kurdish authorities, establishing a ceasefire and coordinating military efforts with the central government. This agreement comes after government forces mitigated an insurgency by Assad loyalists, amidst reports of civilian casualties.
The interim constitution aims to outline a clear timeline for political transition, with Sharaa suggesting it may take three years to draft a permanent constitution and five years to organize national elections. A previous national dialogue conference, which led to the temporary constitution, has been critiqued for lacking inclusivity of various ethnic and sectarian groups. The United States and European countries have retained sanctions against Syria, awaiting assurance of an inclusive political approach from new leaders.
The signing of the temporary constitution by Syria’s interim leader marks a pivotal development in the nation’s attempt to establish Islamist governance during a transitional phase. While aimed at ensuring justice and freedom, the reactions of religious and ethnic minorities highlight the challenges ahead in fostering an inclusive political environment. With ongoing negotiations and timelines in place for constitutional reforms and elections, the future remains uncertain amid international scrutiny and the complex local dynamics.
Original Source: www.france24.com
