Syria’s new leadership announced on Wednesday that Ahmed al-Sharaa has been appointed as the interim president, following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad last month. According to state media reports, Sharaa has been tasked with overseeing the transitional phase and forming a legislative body to guide the country’s future.
Sharaa’s appointment comes in the wake of a rapid offensive led by a coalition of rebel forces, including his Islamist group, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The operation, which concluded on December 8, ended five decades of Assad family rule. A transitional government had already been put in place to manage state affairs until March 1.
Formation of a Temporary Legislature
The state news agency SANA reported that Sharaa’s responsibilities include establishing a temporary legislative council until a permanent constitution is drafted. As part of the transition, the Assad-era parliament has been dissolved, and the 2012 constitution has been suspended.
During a recent conference titled “The Victory of the Syrian Revolution,” attended by key government officials and faction leaders, military official Hassan Abdel Ghani confirmed that Sharaa would also represent Syria in international diplomatic efforts.
Dissolution of Military and Security Structures
In a sweeping move, Abdel Ghani declared the dissolution of all military factions involved in Assad’s removal, including the former government’s army and security agencies. He stated that all armed groups, political bodies, and revolutionary organizations would be integrated into state institutions.
Furthermore, the former regime’s army and security services were disbanded to pave the way for a restructured national security apparatus aimed at ensuring civilian safety. Plans for rebuilding the Syrian army under new leadership were also announced, marking a significant shift in the country’s defense strategy.
Sharaa Outlines Key Priorities
In his address at the conference, Sharaa emphasised the importance of stabilising the country and restoring governance. He outlined Syria’s key priorities, including filling the power vacuum, maintaining civil peace, rebuilding state institutions, and fostering economic development.
Recognising the challenges ahead, Sharaa acknowledged that the path to democracy would take time. He previously estimated that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years, with national elections likely to be held in four years.
Uncertain Future for Syria
While earlier discussions hinted at a national dialogue involving representatives from diverse political backgrounds, there was no mention of such an initiative in SANA’s latest reports. The country remains in a fragile state, having endured a brutal civil war since 2011 that has resulted in over 500,000 deaths and displaced millions of people.
HTS, which has its origins in Syria’s Al-Qaeda faction, is designated as a terrorist organisation by several nations, including the United States. However, in recent years, the group has sought to present a more moderate stance, pledging to safeguard Syria’s religious and ethnic minorities.
Following Assad’s ouster, Western diplomats have engaged with Syria’s new leadership, advocating for an inclusive and transparent transition process. The international community will closely watch the unfolding developments as Syria attempts to navigate its post-Assad era.