Syria’s Interim President Announces Potential 5-Year Timeline for Elections
Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, stated that organizing elections may take up to five years due to the need to restore voting infrastructure. Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad, Sharaa emphasized plans for Syria to adopt a parliamentary system and the formation of an interim government. His appointment received support from regional allies and marks a critical moment in Syrian politics.
Ahmed al-Sharaa, Syria’s newly appointed interim president, announced that organizing national elections could take up to five years. He emphasized the necessity of re-establishing the voting infrastructure, which has been significantly disrupted. In his televised remarks, he stated that Syria is poised to transition into a republic with an elected parliament and executive government.
Sharaa’s comments followed his recent appointment to the interim presidency after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad by Islamist-led rebel forces. He explained that he estimates the election process would require approximately four to five years to ensure everything is adequately organized. Moreover, he mentioned the commitment to establishing a law governing political parties as part of this democratic evolution.
Last week, Sharaa received his presidential mandate from military commanders following the termination of Assad’s more than five-decade-long rule. His appointment has garnered support from several regional players, including Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. He is also tasked with forming an interim legislative body after the dissolution of the Assad-era parliament and the longstanding Baath party.
The old constitution has been repealed, and the existing military and security structures have been disbanded, including armed factions like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. A transitional government is expected to be in place until March 1, aiming to guide the country through this significant change.
The context of this announcement is rooted in the recent political upheaval in Syria following the removal of Bashar al-Assad, who led the country for over 50 years. The current political landscape is witnessing the dismantling of past governmental structures, which presents both challenges and opportunities for establishing a new democratic framework. Building the necessary infrastructure for national elections is pivotal for the future governance of Syria.
In conclusion, Ahmed al-Sharaa’s assertion regarding the five-year timeline for organizing elections underscores the complexities involved in Syria’s political transition. His administration aims to cultivate a new republic with democratic institutions, following the recent political realignment after Assad’s removal. The international support for Sharaa’s leadership marks a significant step towards stability and governance in Syria.
Original Source: www.france24.com
