Syria’s New Transitional Government Sworn In, Aims to Stabilize War-Torn Nation

Syria inaugurated a new transitional government on December 7, 2024, after ousting the Assad regime. This 23-member Cabinet, led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa, aims to stabilize the nation and includes representatives from various ethnic and religious backgrounds. Significant figures, including Hind Kabawat and Raed Saleh, have joined the Cabinet, while the government faces challenges such as the absence of Kurdish representatives and ongoing security concerns.

On December 7, 2024, Syria’s new transitional government was officially inaugurated, following the ousting of the Assad family. This 23-member Cabinet reflects a mix of religious and ethnic backgrounds and represents the first step in the country’s five-year transitional plan. The new structure replaces the interim government that had been in place since early December.

The government is led by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa and deviates from traditional leadership structures by not employing a prime minister; rather, a secretary general will manage the operations, adhering to the temporary constitution executed earlier this month. The Cabinet showcases predominantly new members, with continuity in leadership for foreign affairs and defense, as both ministers retained their positions.

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 newly appointed Defence Minister Murhaf Abu Qasra highlighted the goal of establishing a professional army that serves the populace. Notable absences from the government include representatives from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), though a ceasefire agreement recently signed between al-Sharaa and SDF commander Mazloum Abdi indicates some level of engagement.

Among the new faces, Hind Kabawat, a Christian activist opposing Assad since the uprising in 2011, has been appointed as Minister of Social Affairs and Labour. Raed Saleh, former head of the White Helmets, has taken on the role of Minister for Emergency Disasters, while Mohammed Terko, a Syrian Kurd, is now Minister of Education. Additionally, Mohammed al-Bashir, formerly in charge of the interim government, will oversee energy restoration efforts in Syria.

The transitional government aims to stabilize the nation and cease ongoing conflicts, particularly in light of recent violence that resulted in over 1,000 casualties. The inclusion of women and minority spokespersons within the government signals an effort towards inclusivity and may serve to encourage Western nations to reconsider the economic sanctions enacted during the previous regime. As per reports, approximately 90% of Syrians currently live in poverty, with many experiencing significant food aid disruptions.

Simultaneously, the US State Department has issued a security alert ahead of the Eid el-Fitr holiday, cautioning that embassies and public institutions in Damascus may be potential targets for attacks. This warning underlines ongoing security concerns as the country transitions to its new governance structure.

Syria’s newly formed transitional government marks a significant shift following the removal of the Assad family from power. With a diverse composition aimed at fostering inclusivity, the administration seeks to stabilize the war-torn nation and address humanitarian crises. Nonetheless, challenges remain, including the absence of key Kurdish representation and ongoing security threats as highlighted by international authorities.

Original Source: english.mathrubhumi.com