Syria has unveiled a new transitional government nearly four months after the fall of the Assad regime. This significant change comes as the country seeks to move away from decades of rule by the Assad family. The new government is led by interim president Ahmad al Sharaa, who has pledged to create an inclusive administration.
The announcement of the government comes after the Assad regime was toppled in December last year. Ahmad al Sharaa has been at the helm since January and is now supported by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al Sham. His government aims to stabilize Syria and work towards a future election, which he estimates could take up to five years to organize.
The new cabinet, which consists of 23 members, includes notable figures such as Hind Kabawat, a Christian activist who has opposed Assad since the conflict began in 2011. She will serve as the minister for social affairs and labor. The finance minister role has been given to Mohammed Yosr Bernieh, while Murhaf Abu Qasra and Asaad al Shibani will continue in their positions as defense and foreign ministers, respectively.
Sharaa faces pressure from both Western and Arab nations to ensure that his government remains inclusive. This pressure has intensified following violent incidents that resulted in the deaths of many Alawite civilians along Syria’s western coast earlier this month.
The new government has issued an interim constitutional declaration that emphasizes the importance of Islamic law while also guaranteeing women’s rights and freedom of expression. This step is seen as crucial in addressing the diverse needs of the Syrian population as the country begins to rebuild.
As Syria embarks on this new chapter, the international community will be closely watching how the transitional government manages its promises and navigates the challenges ahead.