Less than two months after the overthrow of Bashar Assad, whose family ruled Syria for more than 50 years, rebel leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Golani, has been declared as the country’s president. The move comes after a meeting during the week of Jan. 26 of military commanders, who took part in battles to take the country during December.
What will a new government look like in Syria?
The new leader said his first priority, as leader of Syria, will be to fill a vacuum in government in a legitimate and legal way. In doing so, al-Sharaa canceled the existing constitution and disbanded the national army, as well as opposition parties. He will now form a temporary legislative council during a transitional period.
What’s the history of the new leader?
He headed the former al-Qaida affiliate group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, or HTS, a U.S.-designated terror organization. At one time, al-Sharaa fought alongside al-Qaida in Iraq as an anti-American jihadist.
The announcement of the new government structure came at a meeting that was titled “The Conference for Announcing the Victory of the Syrian Revolution.” The newly appointed leader called for Syria to have civil peace and said military and security forces must be rebuilt, plus an economic infrastructure must be developed.
What will happen to those who supported the ousted regime?
Following the takeover of Damascus, HTS offered amnesty for members of the Syrian army, asked police officers to stay on duty, and ordered former officials to identify themselves to the rebels in exchange for their safety.
What is the initial reaction to the new Syrian leader?
Some experts believe al-Sharaa is now trying to secure his status as a strongman ruler under single-party rule. However, he has pledged to have an inclusive government that will eventually hold elections.
Many in Syria cheered the announcements, with positive demonstrations on the streets in Damascus reported; however, some fear the way the appointment was made, as well as the lack of clarity on what’s coming next.
For now, Assad is gone, and for the first time since the 1970s, someone other than an Assad rules Syria.
