Mon Oct 06 10:49:53 UTC 2025: ## Syria’s New Justice Minister Vows Accountability After Assad’s Fall, But Challenges Loom
**Damascus, Syria** – As Syria navigates the post-Assad era, the newly formed transitional government is promising a fresh start rooted in justice, truth, and the rule of law. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, Justice Minister Mazhar al-Wais outlined his ministry’s ambitious plan to hold perpetrators of war crimes accountable.
Al-Wais revealed that his ministry proactively secured the Syrian regime’s court archives, preventing their destruction and paving the way for future prosecutions. He emphasized the government’s commitment to investigating and prosecuting crimes committed during the war years, signalling a desire to address the widespread suffering and human rights violations that have plagued the country.
However, the Justice Minister’s efforts face significant hurdles. Critics argue that the transitional justice process is too narrowly focused on the Assad era, neglecting the ongoing violence and sectarian reprisals that continue to create new victims seeking justice. The fear is that a selective approach to accountability will fail to address the root causes of the conflict and undermine the process’s legitimacy.
“We are dedicated to establishing a just and transparent system,” Al-Wais asserted. “But we understand the immense challenges ahead. Ensuring justice for all Syrians, regardless of their background or affiliation, is our utmost priority.”
The question remains whether post-war Syria can truly deliver on its promise of real justice, navigating the complex web of grievances and competing demands for accountability. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, and the success of the transitional justice process will depend on the government’s ability to overcome political obstacles, ensure inclusivity, and build trust among a deeply fractured population.
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