The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Council has rejected the new constitutional declaration from Syria’s Islamist leadership, advocating for its revision to better protect diverse community rights. The U.N. envoy for Syria has called for an inclusive transitional government and investigations into recent sectarian violence, underscoring a pivotal moment in Syria after over a decade of conflict. The SDC argues for genuine consensus in crafting any constitutional changes to ensure balanced power distribution.
The Kurdish-led group governing northeast Syria has formally rejected a new constitutional declaration from the Islamist leadership in Damascus, seeking its revision. This declaration, introduced as a framework for a five-year interim government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, emphasizes Islamic law while promising freedom of opinion. However, the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) asserted that it inadequately safeguards the rights of Syria’s diverse communities, claiming the proposal essentially perpetuates authoritarianism with unchecked executive powers.
In Geneva, U.N. special envoy Geir Pedersen emphasized the need for an inclusive transitional government in Syria and called for inquiries into recent sectarian violence that has resulted in numerous casualties. He noted that Syria is at a crucial juncture, coinciding with the 14th anniversary of the uprising against former President Bashar al-Assad, which spiraled into extensive warfare.
The Kurdish authorities in northeastern Syria established an autonomous governance system following years of marginalization. They worry that the new regime in Damascus may curtail their rights, including the use of the Kurdish language in education and the representation of women in significant governing roles. The SDC’s statement declared that any constitutional framework should emerge from genuine consensus rather than being dictated by a single party.
Furthermore, the SDC serves as the political body for the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces, which recently reached an agreement with the Syrian government regarding key state institutions and resource management. While the implementation deadline looms, the arrangement lacks clarity regarding the integration of SDF operations into the national defense framework. Pedersen expressed hope that Sharaa’s declaration could pave the way for lawful governance and a structured transition, despite ongoing challenges related to sectarian violence and political instability.
In conclusion, the Kurdish-led SDC’s rejection of the new constitution proposed by the Islamist leadership highlights significant concerns regarding minority rights and governance in Syria. The insistence on inclusive dialogue and fair power distribution signifies the ongoing struggle for representation in a fragmented political landscape. As Syria approaches a critical transitional period, international attention remains focused on ensuring stability and safeguarding the rights of its diverse populations, amidst the challenges posed by sectarian discord and authority consolidation.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
