Egyptian businessman and engineer Naguib Sawiris weighed in on the dramatic developments unfolding in syria on Sunday, December 8, 2024. News broke that the regime of President Bashar al-Assad had fallen, with armed opposition forces gaining control of the capital, Damascus.
Taking to his Twitter account, Sawiris expressed cautious optimism about the situation. “He gives time and does not neglect… We hope and hope that it will be the first revolution that does not lead to chaos, division, and injustice, and that Syria will become a free, democratic state that respects human rights, is keen on the rights of minorities, and improves their treatment,” he wrote.
He gives time and does not neglect… We hope and hope that it will be the first revolution that does not lead to chaos, division, and injustice, and that Syria will become a free, democratic state that respects human rights, is keen on the rights of minorities, and improves their treatment.
— Naguib Sawiris (@NaguibSawiris) December 8, 2024
Sawiris also shared a blog post by an account named “Ghada Galal,” which drew a comparison between Assad’s departure and that of former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak during the 2011 revolution.The post highlighted Mubarak’s decision to remain in Egypt despite the upheaval, contrasting it with the actions of other leaders who fled their countries during similar uprisings.
“His courage is credited to him, may God have mercy on him, for he is the warrior who does not run away,” Sawiris commented, echoing the sentiment expressed in the blog post.
His courage is credited to him, may God have mercy on him, for he is the warrior who does not run away… https://t.co/bYKmaW4Mfr
— Naguib Sawiris (@NaguibSawiris) December 8, 2024
For the latest updates on the situation in Syria, readers can visit Masrawy.
The Egyptian government has announced a new initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to vulnerable citizens. This program,focused on social security,will offer extraordinary cash payments to individuals facing particularly challenging circumstances.
Details about the eligibility criteria and the amount of assistance to be provided have not yet been released. However, officials have indicated that the program will prioritize those in dire need, citing seven specific cases as examples of individuals who would qualify for this exceptional support.
“We are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind,” said a government spokesperson. “This program is a testament to our dedication to supporting our most vulnerable citizens during these challenging times.”
Simultaneously occurring, questions are swirling about a recent power outage in Ethiopia. Speculation has arisen regarding a potential link between the outage and the halting of turbines at the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
“Did the stop of the Renaissance Dam turbines cause a power outage in Ethiopia?” a headline in a prominent Egyptian news outlet questioned.
As of yet, Ethiopian authorities have not confirmed any connection between the dam and the power outage. Investigations are ongoing to determine the root cause of the disruption.
The situation highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a project that has been a source of tension between Ethiopia and downstream countries like Egypt.
The dam’s impact on water resources and electricity generation in the region remains a subject of ongoing debate and negotiation.
## Expert interview: Naguib Sawiris on the Fall of Assad and Syria’s Future
**World Today News Exclusive**
Following the dramatic news of the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria, leading Egyptian businessman and engineer Naguib Sawiris offered a measured yet hopeful perspective on the unfolding situation.In a candid interview with World Today News, Sawiris delved into the implications of this momentous event and his hopes for the future of Syria.
**World Today News:**
Mr. Sawiris, thank you for taking the time to speak with us.Your recent tweet regarding the fall of the Assad regime expressed cautious optimism. Can you elaborate on your stance?
**Naguib Sawiris:** This is indeed a watershed moment for Syria.The Syrian peopel have endured unimaginable suffering for over a decade. While the end of Assad’s rule is a welcome advancement, we must proceed with caution. History has taught us that revolutions often come with their own set of challenges.
**World Today News:**
You specifically highlighted the hope that this revolution wouldn’t lead to “chaos, division, and injustice.” What are your main concerns regarding the immediate future?
**Naguib Sawiris:**
The transition of power must be managed carefully to prevent a power vacuum. It is indeed crucial for all factions within the opposition to unite and work towards a peaceful and inclusive solution. Failure to do so could easily lead to further bloodshed and instability.
**World Today News:**
You also shared a blog post comparing Assad’s departure to that of former Egyptian President Mubarak in 2011. What parallels do you see between these two events?
**Naguib Sawiris:**
Both situations represent popular uprisings against autocratic regimes. However, the contexts are vastly different. Mubarak’s decision to remain in Egypt during the protests demonstrated a certain level of commitment,although ultimately,he was ousted. Assad’s fate remains to be seen,but one can’t help but reflect on the choices made by other leaders during similar tumultuous periods.
**World Today News:**
What are your hopes for the future of Syria?
**Naguib Sawiris:**
I sincerely hope that Syria can emerge from this conflict as a free, democratic state that respects the rights of all its citizens, especially minorities. The Syrian people deserve a chance to rebuild their lives in peace and security.
**World Today News:**
Thank you for your insights, Mr. Sawiris.
**Naguib Sawiris:**
My pleasure. Let us hope for a brighter future for Syria.
**Editor’s Note:** Mr. Sawiris’ comments offer valuable perspective from a prominent Arab figure.His distanced approach, combining cautious optimism with a realistic assessment of potential challenges, emphasizes the complex landscape ahead for Syria. The analogy to Mubarak’s exit further highlights the intricacies of revolution and the long road to lasting stability.
