Ahmad al-Sharaa’s remarks on the electoral timetable in Syria have ignited debate regarding the potential risks of HTS consolidating power. Legal experts suggest a four-year preparation period is necessary for political inclusivity, stressing the need for an independent electoral framework to encompass all Syrians affected by the ongoing conflict.
Recent comments by Ahmad al-Sharaa, the de facto leader of the group Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), regarding Syria’s electoral timeline have provoked considerable discussion among Syrians and legal experts. Al-Sharaa indicated in an interview with al-Arabiya that the establishment of new elections could take up to four years, with a constitution drafted in as much as three years. This assertion has raised concerns that HTS may take advantage of the transitional period to reinforce their influence in the region following the possible ouster of Bashar al-Assad’s regime.
HTS, previously recognized as al-Qaida’s Syrian branch, has been instrumental in the recent rebel uprising that resulted in the regime’s defeat on December 8. As HTS maintains control over an enclave in northwestern Idlib province, experts assert that the political landscape must be carefully navigated. Anwar al-Bunni, a legal scholar and co-founder of the Syrian Center for Legal Studies, asserted that a new constitutional framework cannot be discussed while millions of Syrians remain displaced. He emphasized the necessity for a stable environment for refugees to return and engage in political discourse responsibly.
The situation is magnified by the United Nations’ report that estimates over 14 million Syrians have fled their homes since the conflict began in 2011, resulting in 7.2 million internally displaced citizens and nearly 5.5 million refugees. Al-Bunni argues for a realistic approach, suggesting a timeline of three to five years for all Syrians to be adequately prepared for active political participation. He called for an independent electoral commission and the establishment of political parties to facilitate this process.
Syrian American activist Ammar Abdulhamid supported the idea of a four-year transition, provided the interim government is diverse and receptive to criticism regarding human rights practices. He cautioned against potentially filling key positions with HTS loyalists that could lead to a shift in authoritarian governance. Similarly, Bassam Alahmad from Syrians for Truth and Justice underscored the importance of inclusive governance that represents all demographic groups in Syria.
Looking ahead, al-Sharaa stated that a national dialogue conference is slated for January to outline the transitional government’s framework. However, experts agree on the need for a provisional constitution and legal framework to govern the transitional phase adequately. The effectiveness of the upcoming transitional government will significantly influence how the political future of Syria unfolds, highlighting the criticality of inclusivity and engagement from various stakeholders.
The current discussions surrounding Syria’s electoral process arise in the context of over a decade of conflict that has resulted in widespread displacement and political instability. Ahmad al-Sharaa’s comments about the necessity of a substantial preparation period before elections have sparked debates on the potential implications for governance in a post-Assad Syria. Tahrir al-Sham, having consolidated power in certain regions, poses unique challenges and opportunities for Syria’s political future. Legal experts emphasize the urgent need for a comprehensive and inclusive transition to secure the voices of all Syrian demographics historically marginalized in the political discourse.
In summary, the proposed electoral timeline and constitutional development in Syria have opened a critical dialogue about the future of governance in the country. While some experts consider a four-year wait reasonable for preparation, concerns linger regarding the potential consolidation of power by groups like HTS. The pathway forward necessitates an inclusive approach, ensuring representation across the diverse landscape of Syrian society to foster political stability and reintegration for millions displaced by conflict.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
