Syrian Rebel Leader Proposes Major Changes for Future Elections

Syrian rebel leader Ahmed al-Scharaa plans to dissolve the Islamist militia HTS, which previously ruled Idlib with an authoritarian grip and ousted the Syrian government. Under HTS's rule, human rights abuses, including torture and political killings, were rampant. Al-Scharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammed al-Dscholani, led the Al-Nusra Front before founding HTS.

He advocates for a new constitution and elections in Syria, aiming for the country's reconstruction post-Assad regime. This process is expected to take approximately four years, requiring consensus and substantial reforms after 13 years of civil war. Al-Scharaa seeks support from the U.S. and hopes for improved relations with Russia, emphasizing the need to lift U.S. sanctions.

The new leadership in Syria plans to dismantle the former regime's security apparatus, notorious for operating brutal prisons where thousands perished. Al-Scharaa's vision for Syria involves integrating various rebel factions under the Ministry of Defense, striving for a unified national dialogue.