Ahmed al-Sharaa has been named Syria’s transitional president following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad. Key reforms include dissolving the 2012 constitution and integrating rebel groups into state structures. A meeting in Damascus highlighted ongoing negotiations with Russia regarding reconstruction and political stability in post-conflict Syria.
Ahmed al-Sharaa has been appointed as Syria’s transitional president, as reported by state media. This announcement follows al-Sharaa’s leadership of the rebel offensive that resulted in the overthrown of Bashar al-Assad. Alongside this, Hassan Abdul Ghani, a military commander, declared the cancellation of the 2012 constitution and the dissolution of the former regime’s parliament and military organizations, signaling a shift in the governance structure of Syria.
As transitional president, al-Sharaa is tasked with establishing an interim legislative council to facilitate governance until a new constitution is adopted. He has also indicated that all rebel factions that opposed Assad during the civil war will be disbanded and incorporated into state institutions. This plan was unveiled during a meeting in Damascus attended by various commanders of the rebel alliance, including those from al-Sharaa’s Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
HTS, formerly affiliated with al-Qaeda and still designated as a terrorist organization by the UN and several countries, has significantly influenced the power dynamics in north-western Syria. Following the brutal repression of a pro-democracy uprising by Assad in 2011, Syria has experienced extensive civil conflict resulting in over half a million deaths and the displacement of 12 million individuals.
On December 8, amidst the rebel advances, Assad resigned and fled to Russia, leading to the formation of an interim government led by Mohammed al-Bashir to administrate until March. Additionally, the Syrian government has urged Russia to take responsibility for its previous actions by providing war reparations. This request was made during a high-level Kremlin delegation’s visit to Damascus after Assad’s regime was dismantled.
In a meeting, al-Sharaa and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov discussed the importance of rebuilding trust with the Syrian populace through initiatives such as compensation and reconstruction. Russia has expressed its continued support for Syria’s unity and promised assistance in post-war recovery. Recent satellite imagery indicates a possible withdrawal of Russian military assets from its bases along Syria’s coast, while also suggesting that the infrastructure remains strategically significant for Russia.
Nonetheless, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized ongoing dialogue with Syrian authorities in response to queries regarding Assad’s extradition. Al-Sharaa, in a recent interview, highlighted the bilateral strategic ties between Syria and Russia, asserting the importance of maintaining a collaborative relationship given Syria’s reliance on Russian military equipment and expertise in various sectors.
In conclusion, Ahmed al-Sharaa’s appointment as Syria’s transitional president marks a significant transition in the nation’s governance alongside the dissolution of former regime institutions. The integration of rebel factions and the establishment of an interim council represent steps toward a new political framework. Russia’s continued involvement remains crucial in Syria’s reconstruction efforts as both nations navigate the aftermath of prolonged conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
