Ahmad al-Sharaa’s comments on Syria’s election timeline have ignited debate among Syrians and experts who express concern over HTS’s potential consolidation of power amid the proposed four-year preparation period for elections and three years for a new constitution. Legal experts seek an inclusive process, emphasizing the need for refugees to return and participate meaningfully in governance. Various stakeholders underscore the importance of establishing a diverse transitional government.
A recent commentary by Ahmad al-Sharaa, a prominent figure within Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), has sparked contentious discussions amongst Syrian citizens and legal experts regarding the timeline for prospective elections and constitutional reforms following the potential ousting of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. Al-Sharaa suggested in an interview with the Saudi news outlet al-Arabiya that a comprehensive political process necessitates a preparation period of four years for elections, with an additional three years required for drafting a new constitution. This assertion has raised concerns that HTS might exploit this duration to fortify their authority amid the political vacuum that would follow Assad’s regime.
Legal experts like Anwar al-Bunni of the Syrian Center for Legal Studies and Research have acknowledged the proposed timeline as realistic, emphasizing the importance of allowing time for Syrian refugees, who have been significantly displaced since the onset of the conflict, to return and settle before engaging in a political process. He asserted, “We cannot talk about a new constitution and elections while Syrians are scattered all over the world.”
Similarly, Ammar Abdulhamid, a Syrian American activist, contended that while a four-year preparatory period for elections is not unreasonable, it is crucial that this time be utilized effectively to establish an inclusive and diverse interim government that respects human rights. He expressed concern about possible appointments of loyalists to key government positions, warning that such actions could lead to a disguised takeover of governance.
Consultations surrounding the transitional process are anticipated to commence with a national dialogue conference scheduled for January. Bunni underscored the necessity of a legal framework within which these transitions can occur, advocating for the establishment of a provisional constitution.
Other experts highlighted the significance of inclusivity during this transitional phase, asserting that Syrians are well aware of HTS’s historical context and desire an active role in shaping their governance. Bassam Alahmad, from Syrians for Truth and Justice, emphasized that Syrians are focused on the substance of what transpires within the proposed timeline rather than merely the duration itself. He stated, “If the HTS has the intention and political will to establish an inclusive system that allows all Syrians, including Kurds and other groups, to actively participate in their country’s affairs now and in the future, I don’t think people would mind if the process took a couple years.”
The discussions surrounding the electoral timetable in Syria occur against the backdrop of a prolonged civil conflict that has lasted for over a decade. With significant portions of the population displaced internally and externally, the prospect of political change is fraught with challenges. HTS has emerged as a dominant player in the northwest region of Syria, controlling Idlib province, and is poised to influence the transitional government’s formation should the Assad regime fall. The complexity of establishing a representative governance system is compounded by the historical sectarian divisions and the need for inclusivity among diverse communities within Syria.
In sum, Ahmad al-Sharaa’s statements regarding the timeline for elections and constitutional drafting have prompted significant dialogue among Syrians and experts, highlighting both the urgency and complexity of the political transition in Syria. The key will be establishing an inclusive governance structure that allows for broad participation, while also ensuring that the transitional period does not consolidate the power of HTS in ways that could undermine future political plurality. As Syria navigates this pivotal moment, the engagement of all stakeholders will be critical to securing a sustainable political resolution.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
