Damascus, Dec. 3 (SANA) Syria’s Minister of Justice, Mazhar al-Wais, emphasized the government’s commitment to establishing an independent and effective judiciary, which he described as the cornerstone of a new Syria, a nation rooted in the rule of law, justice, and citizenship.
In an interview with SANA on Wednesday, al-Wais stressed that the Syrian people, who triumphed over tyranny, will also succeed in the ongoing effort to rebuild their country.
The minister noted that the state is prioritizing judicial independence, stating, “The primary focus of our work is to ensure that judges are free from external pressures, allowing them to make decisions based on their legal convictions.” He emphasized that this approach is key to restoring public trust and attracting both local and international investment, as a sound legal environment will be crucial in rebuilding confidence among Syrian citizens and investors alike.
Al-Wais outlined the broader reform plan, which includes not only strengthening judicial independence but also combating corruption within the justice system. “Our reform strategy targets tackling corruption throughout the justice sector and simplifying legal and procedural frameworks,” he said.
Addressing the legacy of legal violations, the minister acknowledged the challenges the ministry faces in reforming Syria’s justice system. He explained that the ministry inherited “a system filled with arbitrary rulings—death sentences, wrongful imprisonments, property confiscations, and travel bans.” Special committees have been formed to address these issues within the framework of transitional justice, ensuring that the country’s legal system can move forward while fostering national reconciliation.
Al-Wais also stressed the importance of rebuilding a “state of citizenship,” where all Syrians enjoy dignity and equality. “This is the path we are following, and it has already contributed to greater stability, with the state serving as the primary guardian of civil peace, in partnership with civil society and local communities,” he added.
The minister discussed efforts to reform the civil service, restore the moral standing of civil servants, and ensure they carry out their duties with integrity and professionalism.
Al-Wais further underscored the need to modernize the judicial system to keep pace with global trends. “In an era of rapid technological advancement, countries worldwide are automating processes to save time, enhance transparency, and build public trust,” he said. The ministry is working on a digital transformation plan that aims to streamline legal procedures and improve transparency, ultimately making the justice system more accessible and accountable.
