Key Highlights of Syria’s New Temporary Constitution

Syria has adopted a temporary constitution that consolidates power in interim president Ahmed al-Shara while retaining Islamic law as the legal basis. The document guarantees individual freedoms, such as freedom of expression and women’s rights, for a five-year transitional period before permanent governance structures are established. Yet, doubts linger regarding al-Shara’s commitment to an inclusive government due to his Islamist affiliations.

Syria’s interim government has enacted a temporary constitution that consolidates significant authority within the office of the interim president, Ahmed al-Shara, while maintaining Islamic law as the legal foundation. This declaration was signed on a Thursday, succeeding the dissolution of the previous constitution, which was under the authoritarian regime of Bashar al-Assad. Al-Shara, who played a pivotal role in the overthrow of Assad, anticipates ushering in a new era for Syria after years of dictatorship and warfare.

The newly adopted constitution emphasizes guarantees for individual liberties, including “freedom of opinion, expression, information, publication and press.” This promise, if realized, represents a stark contrast to the oppressive surveillance environment cultivated during Assad’s tenure. Additionally, the temporary constitution underlines the protection of women’s rights and the rights of all citizens during a five-year transitional period, culminated by the introduction of a permanent constitution and subsequent elections for both the presidency and parliament.

Despite these measures, skepticism persists among Syria’s diverse ethnic and religious populations concerning al-Shara’s intent to establish an inclusive governance framework. Concerns are rooted in his association as the leader of an Islamist extremist faction, which raises apprehensions about his capacity to foster unity among all Syrians.

In terms of governance, the temporary constitution allocates extensive powers to the president, including executive authority and the ability to declare a state of emergency. Additionally, the president will appoint one-third of the interim parliament’s members, with the remaining members selected through electoral commissions established by a committee he appoints. This structure demonstrates a significant concentration of power within the presidency during this transitional phase.

The implementation of Syria’s temporary constitution marks a pivotal shift towards potential individual freedoms and inclusivity. However, it simultaneously concentrates significant power in the hands of interim president Ahmed al-Shara and retains Islamic law as the legal foundation. The effectiveness of these constitutional guarantees hinges on the president’s ability to deliver on his promises amidst prevalent skepticism from various societal groups.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com