Title: Syria‘s De Facto Leader Sets Four-Year Timeline for Elections, Plans New Constitution
Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has indicated that organizing and holding elections in the country could take up to four years, Reuters reports. This is the first time Sharaa has discussed a timeframe for elections since the regime of Bashar al-Assad was ousted on December 8.
New Constitution Planned
Sharaa explained that drafting a new constitution will take approximately three years, followed by more time to prepare for the election process. He suggested that significant changes in the country’s governance may not be visible to Syrians for at least a year.
Dissolution of ‘Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’
Sharaa, who heads the ‘Hayat Tahrir al-Sham’ group that played a crucial role in toppling the Assad regime, announced that the organization will be disbanded after a national conference that marks the beginning of Syria’s new political process.
Relations with Russia and International Politics
Sharaa emphasized that Syria will continue to pursue strategic interests aligned with Russia, acknowledging the importance of Russian bases in the country and Moscow’s support during the civil war. He stated, "Our relations with Russia should serve the common interests of both nations."
He also expressed hope that the administration of newly inaugurated U.S. President Donald Trump will lift the sanctions imposed on Syria. American diplomats who visited Damascus view Sharaa as a pragmatic leader, with the $10 million reward for his capture already removed.
Future Outlook
With the unveiling of a long-term transition plan, Sharaa called for patience from the Syrian people and underscored the importance of restoring unity and stability in the country after 13 years of civil war.
