Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, has signed a temporary constitution establishing Islamist rule for five years. Despite aspirations for a new democratic era, significant concerns remain over the inclusivity and authority of the interim government, especially among minority communities. The international community remains hesitant to lift sanctions without guarantees for minority protections.
On Thursday, Syria’s interim leader, Ahmad al-Sharaa, signed a temporary constitution, establishing an Islamist governance for a transitional period of five years. This development follows the December offensive that led to the ousting of dictator Bashar al-Assad, causing significant changes in the country’s political landscape.
In a hopeful statement, Sharaa expressed that this constitutional declaration marks the onset of “a new history for Syria,” reflecting a desire to replace oppression with justice and suffering with mercy. However, the interim rulers face challenges in asserting authority, particularly as skepticism persists among minority groups regarding the new Islamist leadership.
Abdulhamid Al-Awak, a member of the drafting committee, revealed that the temporary constitution retains key provisions from the previous constitution. It establishes that the head of state must be a Muslim, and Islamic law will serve as the primary source of jurisprudence. Notably, it also includes protections for freedom of expression and the media, along with provisions for the separation of powers.
Sharaa’s administration has recently entered into a significant agreement with Kurdish-led authorities in northeastern Syria, which includes a ceasefire and the integration of armed forces. This agreement is seen as a critical step following intense conflicts resulting in civilian casualties, particularly among Assad’s Alawite sect.
The interim constitution outlines a timeline for Syria’s political transition, with Sharaa estimating it might take up to three years to draft a new constitution and possibly five years to conduct elections. However, critics have raised concerns regarding the inclusivity of the process, particularly noting the absence of diverse ethnic and civil society representation in the discussions leading to the interim constitution.
International responses remain cautious, with the United States and Europe reluctant to lift sanctions from the Assad era until there are assurances of an inclusive political framework that safeguards minority rights. As the interim government pushes for reconsideration of sanctions, fears grow that economic instability could exacerbate the nation’s challenges.
Syria’s recent constitutional signing marks a pivotal transition towards Islamist governance under interim leader Ahmad al-Sharaa. While aimed at enhancing freedom and justice, the constitution’s establishment raises concerns regarding inclusivity and governance authority in a nation coming out of decades of dictatorship. As negotiations continue, the international community remains watchful, emphasizing the need for minority rights protection and an inclusive political framework.
Original Source: www.france24.com
