Ahmad Al Shara, the new Syrian president, was a quiet child who enjoyed football, as recalled by his childhood barber, Mohammad Ouglo. After years in exile, Al Shara returned to his barber, reflecting on his roots and engaging with the community. Despite a decline in Ouglo’s business post-regime change, there is hope for a better future under Al Shara’s leadership among locals.
Syrian President Ahmad Al Shara was described as a calm, football-loving child by his childhood barber, Mohammad Mustafa Ouglo, in a recent interview with The National. Growing up in Mazzeh, a suburb of Damascus, Al Shara was known for his quiet demeanor and his habit of playing soccer and praying at the local mosque. Ouglo fondly recalled their long history, mentioning how he recognized Al Shara immediately upon his return after years of exile following a significant transition in Syrian leadership.
The Al Shara family operated a grocery store and a real estate brokerage, which they lost in 2014 amidst the Syrian civil war. Despite the years apart, Ouglo remembered the former childhood friend distinctly, noting Al Shara’s reserved nature during their interactions. “He was very quiet, kind, and soft-spoken,” Ouglo remarked.
During Al Shara’s visit to the barber shop, he appeared with his family, although they waited in the car while he got his haircut. Instead of discussing politics, Ouglo preferred to inquire about Al Shara’s well-being. Recognizable in the neighborhood, the new president engaged with community members, addressing their concerns about daily necessities like electricity.
After becoming president, Al Shara visited various locations significant to his upbringing, including his hometown and the mosque where he prayed. The barber commented on how little Al Shara seemed to change over the years, maintaining his warm connection with familiar surroundings. Ouglo pointed out cultural norms surrounding haircuts, describing how children were expected to keep their appearance tidy.
Though Al Shara returned for a second haircut, subsequent visits dwindled after he assumed the presidency, marking a shift in his public persona. Ouglo, known as “Al Shara’s barber,” noted a decline in business attributed to shifting customer demographics following the regime change.
Despite challenges, Ouglo remained optimistic about Syria’s future under Al Shara’s leadership, echoing sentiments shared by locals. “I am very happy he is the president, I am very optimistic,” he expressed, highlighting a collective desire for national improvement.
Ahmad Al Shara’s background reflects a humble upbringing, characterized by community ties and personal connections. His quiet nature and fond memories from childhood resonate with those who remember him. Despite his rise to power bringing changes, there remains hope among the Syrian people for a better future under his leadership. Ouglo’s reflections evidence both nostalgia and optimism within the community.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
