Constitution could take three years, warns Syria rebel leader

Following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad on December 8, 2024, Ahmed al-Sharaa, the new de facto leader of Syria, emphasized the complexity of establishing a new government and legal structure. In a recent interview, Sharaa discussed the timeline for holding elections, indicating that significant changes may take years to implement. He stated that drafting a new constitution could take up to three years, while the overall election process could take four years, with a year anticipated before real improvements in public services are noticeable. Sharaa, who leads the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) group, indicated that the transition would involve building a legal framework essential for conducting legitimate elections. This requires not only creating a new constitution but also conducting a comprehensive population census. Sharaa acknowledged the need for a functioning legal system to safeguard the electoral process, which has been a major concern given the fractured political landscape and the ongoing challenges in post-war Syria. He assured listeners that the HTS would be dissolved in an upcoming national dialogue, laying the groundwork for a new political era in the country. While addressing foreign relations, Sharaa reaffirmed Syria's strategic ties with Russia, highlighting the importance of collaboration that aligns with the nations' mutual interests. He expressed hope that the incoming U.S. administration, led by President-elect Donald Trump, would reconsider sanctions against Syria, potentially aiding recovery efforts in the war-torn nation. Sharaa's pragmatic approach has been recognized by U.S. diplomats, who recently visited Damascus and noted his inclination to engage constructively with the international community. In light of the political upheaval, Syria is undergoing significant reformation, but uncertainty remains regarding how the HTS will govern a diverse population comprised of various ethnic and religious communities. Sharaa emphasized the commitment to protect minority rights, a pivotal factor in ensuring stability and unity in post-Assad Syria. The public's response remains cautious, as the past history of HTS raises questions about their governance capabilities and intentions moving forward.