Ahmad al-Sharaa, Syria’s de facto leader, has stated that elections in the country could take up to four years to organize as infrastructure is developed. His interim government plans to draft a new constitution, a process expected to take up to three years. Al-Sharaa seeks international legitimacy and is establishing diplomatic relations, including a notable engagement with a Ukrainian delegation.
Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, has announced that elections in the country may not occur for as long as four years. In his first remarks regarding a potential electoral timeline since the ousting of the Assad regime, Al-Sharaa emphasized the necessity of establishing foundational infrastructure prior to conducting elections. His interim government, which he leads under the Islamist faction Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), also intends to draft a new constitution, a process that may require up to three years to complete.
Al-Sharaa articulated the critical nature of this juncture in Syria’s history, stating, “The opportunity that was given to us today doesn’t present itself every four or five years… the constitution must regulate society so that the previous experience does not repeat itself.” Furthermore, he indicated that HTS will eventually dissolve, announcing this change at the upcoming National Dialogue Conference, though no date has yet been set for the gathering. Al-Sharaa also expressed a desire for Russia, a former ally, to maintain a respectful presence in Syria despite recent military withdrawals following Assad’s removal.
Additionally, a recent meeting took place in Damascus between Al-Sharaa and a Ukrainian delegation led by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. Al-Sharaa’s government seeks to establish international legitimacy, with recent diplomatic engagements including discussions with officials from the United States and Europe. In an indication of changing tides, a high-ranking US delegation has already communicated the removal of the bounty previously placed upon Al-Sharaa.
As he engages increasingly in diplomatic discourse, Al-Sharaa is also fostering a relationship with Saudi Arabia, underscoring the kingdom’s significant role in Syria’s future. In his statements, he has suggested that Iran reconsider its involvement in the region, reinforcing a pivot towards new alliances as Syria embarks on this transitional journey.
The current political situation in Syria is a direct result of the recent overthrow of the Assad regime, which has significantly altered the governance landscape. Ahmad al-Sharaa’s remarks reflect the complexities of transitioning from a long-standing autocratic regime to a more democratic framework, necessitating foundational development including a new constitution and electoral preparations. The involvement of international players and the quest for legitimacy underscore the multifaceted nature of Syria’s evolving governance.
In summary, Ahmad al-Sharaa’s comments shed light on the considerable challenges faced by Syria’s interim government as it seeks to establish a new political framework after the fall of the Assad regime. The proposed timeline of up to four years for elections highlights the necessity for careful preparation and infrastructure development. Moreover, Al-Sharaa’s efforts to engage in international diplomacy signal a strategic pivot aimed at garnering legitimacy and fostering foreign relations, particularly with nations like Saudi Arabia while also redefining Syria’s geopolitical connections.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
