Syrian Prime Minister declares readiness for process of transferring power to opposition
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali (photo: facebook.com/muhammad.aljalali)
Syrian Prime Minister Mohammed Ghazi Jalali has expressed his readiness to cooperate with any leadership chosen by the people. The statement came after rebels entered Damascus, seized control of the capital, and the apparent collapse of President Bashar al-Assad's regime, reports the Associated Press.
The head of the Syrian government noted that he remains in the country and commented on the process of transferring power to a transitional government, which may include opposition representatives.
In a video message posted on his Facebook page, Djalali stated that he would go to his office in the morning to continue his work. The politician emphasized that the government is ready to extend a hand to the opposition and transfer the functions of a transitional government to them.
"This country can be a normal one, building good relations with its neighbors and the world… but this depends on any leadership chosen by the Syrian people. We are ready to cooperate with (this leadership) and offer all possible conveniences," he said.
The Syrian Prime Minister also urged Syrian citizens not to damage state property.
Despite widespread media reports about the alleged escape of President Assad from Damascus aboard a plane, Djalali did not clarify in his statement whether the president had left the country.
Rebels' entry into Damascus and the collapse of Assad's regime in Syria
Earlier this night, reports indicated that Syrian rebels entered the capital, Damascus, on December 8, following a rapid advance and the capture of the city of Homs the day before.
High-ranking Syrian military officers told Western media that President Bashar al-Assad had left Damascus, using an aircraft to flee in an unknown direction.
It was reported that the General Staff of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) informed military personnel about the collapse of Assad's regime and issued orders to surrender their weapons. Syrian rebels have already declared the success of the revolution.
Additionally, Bloomberg reported the day before that Assad had allegedly sought help through intermediaries from the US Trump, in an attempt to either remain in power or secure a deal for a safe exile, should that become necessary.
