Syria's 'Government of change' revealed: New Ministers, new faces, and major shifts

A new government was sworn in Syria today, marking a significant shift in leadership as part of the country’s transition after the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad's regime. Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara (Julani) introduced his new cabinet, emphasizing a commitment to human rights, reform, and rebuilding state institutions. This government, described as a "government of change and reconstruction," will focus on strengthening the country’s social, economic, and educational sectors while addressing corruption.

A notable appointment in the new government is Hind Kabawat, a Christian woman, who has been appointed as the Minister of Social Affairs. Kabawat, an expert in conflict resolution, has a strong background in education and has led organizations promoting peace across the Arab world. She is the only female minister in this new government, signaling a shift toward inclusivity, albeit with a limited representation of women in leadership positions. Her appointment comes at a time when the Syrian government is undergoing substantial transformation, replacing the previous "Salvation Government" that controlled Idlib and parts of the country under Assad’s regime.

Other notable changes include the removal of two controversial ministers from the past administration. Maher al-Shara, the president's brother who served as Minister of Health, has been replaced. Justice Minister Shadi al-Waisi, who had been implicated in the execution of a woman in Idlib, was also removed from his position. Mohammad al-Bashir, the former Prime Minister, was demoted to the position of Minister of Energy following constitutional changes that eliminated the office of Prime Minister.

The new government also brings in some familiar faces, such as Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani and Defense Minister Murhaf Abu Kasra, who retain their positions due to their close ties with President al-Shara. Other key figures include Raed al-Salah, the new Minister of Emergency and Crises, who previously led the White Helmets organization, and Hamza al-Mustafa, the new Minister of Information, who was formerly the director of Syria TV, an opposition channel.

President al-Shara's government is determined to ensure Syria’s sovereignty during this transitional phase, rejecting any external influences or violations on Syrian soil, particularly those from Israel, as claimed by Foreign Minister Al-Shibani.

This reshuffling of leadership comes at a critical moment for Syria, as it moves toward a new era following the collapse of the Assad regime, with efforts focused on reform, stability, and rebuilding the war-torn country.