Syria has established a committee to draft a constitutional declaration in the wake of Bashar al-Assad’s removal to guide the national transition. This seven-member group includes legal experts and aims to lay the foundation for the country’s governance post-conflict. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa is leading this initiative, with the intent of completing a revised constitution within three years.
On Sunday, Syria’s interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa announced the creation of a committee assigned with drafting a constitutional declaration aimed at facilitating the country’s transition following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. The reformed government is dedicated to reconstructing Syria and revitalizing its institutions after over 50 years of Assad family rule and over a decade of brutal conflict.
The newly formed committee, comprised of experts including one woman, will be responsible for proposing a constitutional framework to guide Syria’s transitional phase. This seven-member committee, as stated by the presidency, will review and submit its draft to President Sharaa, although a specific timeline for completion has not been disclosed.
In January, Mr. Sharaa, from the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, was appointed as interim president. The new authorities have officially annulled the previous constitution instated by Assad, with Sharaa indicating that drafting a new constitution could potentially take up to three years. He previously promised a constitutional declaration to serve as a reference during the transition.
This latest announcement aligns with the aspirations of the Syrian populace to establish a state grounded in the rule of law, as highlighted by the results of a recent national dialogue conference. The initiative aims to lay down the legal framework guiding this transitional period.
Members of the committee include experienced legal academics such as Abdul Hamid al-Awak, a constitutional law professor, and Bahia Mardini, the only woman member, a journalist with a law doctorate residing in Britain. This week’s national dialogue conference underscored calls for a constitutional committee to draft a permanent constitution ensuring justice, freedom, and institutional governance.
Syria has been embroiled in civil unrest since 2011, following the harsh suppression of anti-government protests by Assad’s regime. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over half a million fatalities, the displacement of millions, and widespread destruction of national infrastructure and industries. A caretaker government has been appointed to oversee the country until a new government is established by March 1.
The formation of a committee to draft a constitutional declaration signifies a critical step towards rebuilding Syria and establishing a rule of law following years of conflict. The inclusion of experts from legal backgrounds illustrates a commitment to creating a democratic and equitable legal framework. As the Syrian nation progresses toward recovery, continued attention to the transitional legal processes will be essential for its long-term stability and governance.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
