Syria's Interim President Signs Five-Year Constitutional Declaration

Syria's interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa signed a constitutional declaration on Thursday that will govern a five-year transitional period, aiming to replace oppression with justice. The declaration dissolves the existing Constitutional Court, allowing the president to appoint a new one under current legal frameworks until a permanent judicial system is established. Key provisions include the emphasis on judicial independence, freedom of expression, and the parliament's role in any presidential dismissals. While some elements from the previous constitution remain, such as stipulations regarding the head of state and Islamic law, the new document seeks to balance social security with freedoms. The transitional phase has raised concerns among religious and ethnic minorities about the dominance of Islamist rule. A committee will be formed to draft a permanent constitution, with hopes of creating a more inclusive governance structure.