Syria has inaugurated a new 23-member transitional government, led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, aimed at stabilizing the nation post-Assad. The Cabinet is diverse, reflecting inclusivity by incorporating minority representatives. Notably, it does not include members from the Kurdish-led SDF despite recent agreements. The government’s focus will be on rebuilding and addressing ongoing humanitarian crises, amidst warnings of potential violence during the forthcoming Eid el-Fitr holiday.
On December 7, 2024, Syria inaugurated a new transitional government, following the ousting of the Assad family. This diverse 23-member Cabinet is pivotal during the transitional five-year period and replaces the previous interim government. Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa will lead the Cabinet, which will operate under a secretary general without a designated prime minister, aligning with the temporary constitution established earlier this month.
The new government, announced ahead of Eid el-Fitr, predominantly consists of fresh faces. Notably, the foreign affairs and defence ministers remain from the former regime, while the Interior Minister, Anas Khattab, transitions from his role as head of intelligence to the new Cabinet. In his address, al-Sharaa stated, “The formation of a new government today is a declaration of our joint will to build a new state.”
The Cabinet notably excludes members from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the autonomous administration of northeastern Syria, despite al-Sharaa recently signing a ceasefire agreement with SDF commander Mazloum Abdi for SDF’s integration into the Syrian army. New appointments include Hind Kabawat as minister of social affairs, Raed Saleh as minister for emergency disasters, and Mohammed Terko as minister of education. Mohammed al-Bashir, previously the interim government leader, will focus on repairing Syria’s energy sector.
The government aims to stabilize Syria amid ongoing conflicts, particularly in the coastal Alawite region. With many insurgent groups being Sunni, the inclusion of women and minority representatives serves as a signal of political inclusiveness. Additionally, this formation is likely a strategy to encourage Western countries to lift sanctions stemming from Assad’s era. However, around 90% of Syrians live in poverty, exacerbating humanitarian issues.
Prior to the government’s announcement, the U.S. State Department issued a security alert highlighting potential attacks during the Eid el-Fitr holidays, deeming embassies and public institutions in Damascus as potential targets for violence.
Syria’s transitional government aims to facilitate stability and inclusivity following the Assad regime’s fall. With an emphasis on a diverse cabinet and integration efforts with the SDF, the new administration seeks to end prolonged conflict and possibly alleviate international sanctions. However, significant challenges remain, particularly concerning humanitarian issues with a large majority of the population living in poverty.
Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com
