“The development of our nation and the overcoming of the challenges we face will only be achieved through solidarity among all, both people and leadership,” al-Sharaa said in his first speech to Syrians after being declared president for the transitional phase by the Islamist armed groups that came to power after overthrowing the government of Bashar al-Assad.

Al-Sharaa clarified that work will be done to form a comprehensive transitional government that reflects Syria’s diversity and build the institutions of the new Syria “until we reach the stage of free and fair elections.” A preparatory committee will also be set up to select a mini-legislative Council to fill the gap in the transitional phase, and a commission will be set up in the coming days to handle the upcoming National Dialogue Conference, which will be a direct platform for deliberations, consultations and hearing views on the next political program.

“Once the above steps are completed, we will announce the Constitutional Declaration that will be the legal reference for the transitional phase,” al-Sharaa said, adding that the priorities of the transitional phase will focus on achieving civil peace and prosecuting criminals through true transitional justice.

The interim president promised to complete the unity of the Syrian territory and impose sovereignty under a single authority, building strong state institutions based on efficiency and justice, free of corruption, favoritism, and bribery.

Regarding questions about the legality of his presidency, al-Sharaa explained that he assumed responsibility for the country after extensive consultations with legal experts to ensure that the political process moves forward within legal norms and in a way that gives it the necessary legitimacy. “Building the nation is our collective responsibility and I invite all Syrians to participate in a new Syria based on justice, progress, stability, and well-being, a Syria that reaches out to others in peace and respect,” he concluded his speech.

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