Syrian Kurds Reject Transitional Constitution Over Authoritarian Concerns

Ahmed al-Scharaa’s proposed constitution faces backlash for alleged centralization of power despite promises of inclusivity and reform.

The Democratic Council of Syria, representing the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has rejected the transitional constitution proposed by interim President Ahmed al-Scharaa.
Critics argue the draft consolidates executive power, restricts political freedoms, and undermines democratic processes, calling it a potential return to authoritarianism.
The constitution, signed Thursday, includes provisions for religious freedom, women’s rights, and press freedom but retains Islamic law as a legislative foundation and mandates the president be Muslim.
Al-Scharaa, a former leader of the Islamist group HTS, has sought to integrate the SDF into state institutions, recognizing Kurdish citizenship rights and pledging national unity.
Tensions remain high following recent violence between factions loyal to the previous Assad regime and the new government, highlighting ongoing instability in post-civil war Syria.