Syrian Legal Committee Outlines Stages for Constitutional Declaration
The Syrian Legal Committee tasked with drafting the Constitutional Declaration has stated that, in light of the legal vacuum resulting from the repeal of the 2012 constitution—crafted by Bashar al-Assad’s regime—it has become essential to establish a constitutional declaration. This declaration aims to regulate the transitional phase, steer the country toward stability and reconstruction, and is not intended as a substitute for a permanent constitution.
Legal Framework for Syria’s Transitional Phase
In a statement to the Syrian News Agency, the committee elaborated: “Given the legal vacuum caused by the abolition of the 2012 constitution, drafted under Bashar al-Assad’s regime, it has become imperative to formulate a constitutional declaration. This will organize the transitional phase, guide the state toward stability and rebuilding, and serve as a temporary measure rather than a replacement for a permanent constitution.”
The committee further explained that “the constitutional declaration derives its legitimacy from the National Dialogue Conference and the Victory Conference, where various segments of the Syrian people agreed on the need for a legal framework. This framework will regulate the transitional phase, define the foundations of governance, and safeguard rights and freedoms. It is a legal document designed to manage Syria’s transitional period by delineating the powers of the three branches of government: legislative, executive, and judicial.”
Drafting Process and National Input
The Legal Committee emphasized its responsibility in drafting the declaration: “The committee is
tasked with preparing a draft of the constitutional declaration after studying the key principles and
provisions it must include. These provisions aim to serve the country’s interests and meet the demands
of the transitional phase. The committee is committed to drawing insights from the national dialogues
and discussions held during the constitutional building workshops at the National Dialogue
Conference.”
The committee affirmed that “upon completing the drafting process, we will submit the proposal to the
Presidency of the Republic. This step is intended to establish a new phase grounded in law and
institutions, ensuring a transition toward a more stable and just Syria.”
Upcoming Steps and People’s Council
According to leaks, the President of the country will appoint the People’s Council within 60 days of the
constitutional declaration’s issuance. The council will consist of 100 members, selected to ensure fair
representation of Syria’s diverse components and competencies. The President will appoint the council
through a republican decree, and its term will last two years.
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