Ahmad Al Shara, recently inaugurated as Syria’s president, was fondly remembered by his childhood barber for his gentle demeanor and love of football. Following his unexpected return to Damascus after years of exile, Al Shara connected with his past through his barber, Mohammad Mustafa Ouglo. The barber’s reflections paint a picture of nostalgia intertwined with optimism for Syria’s future under the new leadership.
Ahmad Al Shara, recently appointed President of Syria, is described by his childhood barber, Mohammad Mustafa Ouglo, as a quiet and gentle boy who enjoyed playing football and praying at a local mosque. Ouglo recounted how he first met Mr. Al Shara when the latter was just a child in Mazzeh, a suburb of Damascus, where he frequently visited the barber shop alongside his family. The Al Shara family’s history in the area included running a grocery store and a real estate business before they were forced to flee during the Syrian civil war in 2014.
Upon his return to Damascus after years of exile, Mr. Al Shara visited Ouglo’s salon seeking a familiar touch amidst his newfound presidency. Ouglo recalled the president as quiet and reserved, engaging in conversation only when prompted. Their encounter was devoid of political discussions; instead, Ouglo was genuinely interested in the personal well-being of his childhood patron as they reminisced about the past.
During his salon visit, Al Shara received questions from locals about pressing issues like power shortages, to which he responded with patience. His presence elicited a warm reception, as the barber noted that people admired him for his kindness. Mr. Al Shara aimed to reconnect with the memories of his youth, visiting significant places from his childhood, including his hometown and mosque.
Mr. Ouglo reflected on the impression Mr. Al Shara left during their meetings, maintaining that the hairstyle he requested symbolically connected him to his past. However, following Al Shara’s ascent to the presidency, he stopped visiting the salon, leaving Ouglo to ponder the dynamics of his business, which did not improve following the regime change. His client base, primarily former military personnel, had decreased post-revolution.
Despite the challenges, Ouglo expressed optimism about the future under President Al Shara’s leadership, believing there is a collective hope among Syrians for national improvement. He noted that discussions among friends and customers often center on positive sentiments regarding the president’s potential, underscoring a desire for a better Syria.
Mr. Ahmad Al Shara’s ascent to the presidency marks a pivotal moment in Syrian history, reigniting hopes among his childhood acquaintances and the broader populace. As a figure who once played football and prayed at local mosques, he symbolizes both continuity and change for a nation emerging from conflict. The sentiments of his childhood barber highlight the optimistic outlook many feel regarding Al Shara’s leadership and the future of Syria.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
