In a recent statement, Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa indicated elections could take up to four years to organize following the overthrow of the Assad regime. His interim government aims to draft a constitution and establish infrastructure. Al-Sharaa is pursuing international legitimacy, engaging with multiple diplomatic delegations, including the recent visit from Ukraine, while indicating a need for regional cooperation.
The de facto leader of Syria, Ahmad al-Sharaa, has indicated that the organization of elections in Syria could extend up to four years. This statement is his first concerning an electoral timeline following his rebel group’s recent overthrow of the Assad regime. He emphasized the need for thorough preparation of infrastructure prior to elections, as well as the drafting of a new constitution that may take an additional three years. Al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani and leader of the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir Al-Sham (HTS), conveyed a vision for the reconstruction of the country after decades of destruction under Assad’s rule. Furthermore, he noted that HTS intends to dissolve during the upcoming National Dialogue Conference, a pivotal event for the transitional phase, though a date for this meeting has yet to be established.
Al-Sharaa’s administration has begun to engage diplomatically on an international level, receiving various delegations, including one from Ukraine led by Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. This visit highlighted shared experiences between the Syrian and Ukrainian people. Additionally, Al-Sharaa met with a high-ranking U.S. delegation that informed him of the removal of a $10 million bounty previously placed on him. This development aligns with U.S. interests in addressing critical issues such as terrorism, as highlighted by Assistant Secretary of State Barbara Leaf. Al-Sharaa is actively seeking international legitimacy while shedding his former jihadist image, adopting a more statesman-like appearance during diplomatic interactions, and emphasizing the need for collaboration with regional powers such as Saudi Arabia.
The current context in Syria is one of significant change following the recent successful uprising against President Bashar al-Assad. Ahmad al-Sharaa’s comments on the length of time needed for elections reflect the challenges of establishing a stable political environment amid destruction from the long-standing regime. His leadership of the HTS marks a transition from militant rule to a more governance-focused approach, necessitating infrastructure reforms and new constitutional frameworks. Additionally, international perspectives regarding Syria’s legitimacy are shifting, following extensive diplomatic engagements aimed at addressing both local and geopolitical concerns.
In summary, the Syrian electoral process is projected to require several years of preparation, as articulated by Ahmad al-Sharaa. His leadership seeks to transition the country from decades of authoritarian rule to a new governance model, emphasizing reconstruction and international legitimacy. Engagements with global partners indicate a gradual acceptance of the new leadership while aiding in the stabilization of Syria. The path forward includes drafting a new constitution and a strategic dissolution of HTS, aiming for broad acceptance and collaboration in the region.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
