Ahmed al-Sharaa has stated the nation wants time to ascertain a political system and rebuild its infrastructure
Syria’s transitional president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has introduced that elections is not going to be held for as much as 5 years, citing the necessity to rebuild the nation’s infrastructure and set up a functioning political system.
Al-Sharaa, also referred to as Abu Mohammad al-Joulani, took energy in December 2024 after jihadist factions led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew Bashar Assad’s authorities. Assad, who had dominated Syria since 2000, fled to Russia, the place he and his household have been granted asylum. The brand new authorities suspended the structure and introduced a transition interval below HTS management.
Discussing the timeline for elections in an interview with Syria TV on Monday, Al-Sharaa stated that such a step wouldn’t be possible within the quick time period because of structural and logistical obstacles.
“I estimate that the interval can be between 4 to 5 years till elections as a result of there’s a want for an enormous infrastructure, and this infrastructure must be re-established and establishing it wants time,” he advised Syria TV, as quoted by Reuters. He additionally acknowledged that the transitional authorities would adhere to worldwide norms earlier than elections are held.
Syria’s new administration beforehand stated it might draft a brand new structure and restructure state establishments. Al-Sharaa has stated a nationwide convention can be held to handle governance points and type a legislative council to supervise reforms. HTS leaders have additionally acknowledged that armed factions can be absorbed into state safety forces. Nevertheless, no particular timeline has been given for these measures.
The Western media has largely portrayed Al-Sharaa as a “reasonable” Islamist chief, contrasting his rule with Assad’s secular authorities. Nevertheless, his background as a jihadist commander has raised considerations about Syria’s future management. HTS emerged from Al-Qaeda’s Syrian affiliate and stays below worldwide sanctions.
The US has been working to take away HTS from its terrorist designation record, with officers reportedly contemplating such a step as a part of efforts to have interaction with Syria’s new management. Washington has not formally acknowledged Al-Sharaa’s authorities however has signaled an openness to dialogue with HTS officers relating to Syria’s political transition.
The autumn of Assad’s authorities has triggered combined reactions. Russia and Iran, longtime allies of Assad, initially condemned the takeover, describing it as an armed coup by extremist factions. In the meantime, Türkiye and a number of other Gulf states have signaled an openness to cautious engagement with the brand new authorities.
However, Moscow has since maintained communication with Syria’s new management. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has acknowledged that Russia “can not keep away from contacting those that management the scenario on the bottom.” A Russian delegation additionally held talks with the brand new authorities in Damascus final month, expressing a willingness to proceed the traditionally steady relationship between the 2 nations.
You’ll be able to share this story on social media:
Supply hyperlink
