Syria Appoints Ahmed al-Sharaa as Transitional President Post-Assad
Ahmed al-Sharaa has been named Syria’s transitional president post-Assad’s ousting. He aims to form an interim council while dissolving the previous regime’s structures, integrating former rebels into state institutions. Russia’s involvement in Syria remains critical as discussions on reparations and support for rebuilding continue amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.
Ahmed al-Sharaa has been appointed as Syria’s transitional president following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad seven weeks prior. State media reported that military leader Hassan Abdul Ghani declared the dissolution of the 2012 constitution and the previous regime’s parliament, army, and security services. Sharaa aims to establish an interim legislative council to govern until a new constitution is developed.
As president, Sharaa plans to integrate all rebel factions that opposed Assad into state institutions. This announcement was made during a recent meeting in Damascus, attended by various commanders of rebel groups allied with Sharaa’s faction, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). HTS has a controversial background as a former al-Qaeda affiliate, now officially recognized as a terrorist organization by multiple governments and international bodies.
The uprising against Assad began in 2011, after a severe crackdown on peaceful protests led to a devastating civil war, resulting in over half a million deaths and millions displaced. On December 8, Assad resigned amidst a swift rebel offensive, leading to the interim administration headed by Mohammed al-Bashir until March.
Additionally, recent discussions between Syrian officials, including Sharaa and Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov, focused on Russia addressing its past mistakes and possibly providing war reparations. Russian support remains crucial, as their military involvement has significantly impacted the conflict dynamics since 2015.
Despite troop withdrawals from Syrian bases, Russia aims to maintain strategic footholds in the region. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov emphasized the value of ongoing dialogue with Syrian leadership, indicating a commitment to fostering relations. Sharaa highlighted the strong ties between Syria and Russia, stating, “All of Syria’s arms are of Russian origin” – Al Arabiya TV.
Ahmed al-Sharaa’s appointment as transitional president marks a significant shift in Syria’s governance. The cancellation of the 2012 constitution and planned reforms indicate a move towards integrating rebel factions into formal state structures. Additionally, Russia’s support remains vital for Syria’s recovery and management of its post-war realities, emphasizing the complex geopolitical dynamics involved. The implications of these changes will need to be carefully monitored, especially concerning the future stability and reconstruction of Syria.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
