Syria’s Grand Mufti urges calm, says justice must remain under state authority
Syria’s Grand Mufti Sheikh Osama al-Rifai on Friday called for calm and urged Syrians to refrain from any uncontrolled actions that could lead to internal strife, stressing that accountability for crimes should be left to the state and its competent institutions.
In remarks published by the Supreme Fatwa Council on its official Telegram channel, Mufti Rifai said that demands for justice and accountability for those involved in violations are a “legitimate right,” but stressed that such efforts must be carried out within the framework of the state and the law, and not through individual or unorganized collective actions.
He said the suffering of Syrians over the past six decades due to the practices of the deposed regime, its affiliates, and forces used against the population requires a careful and responsible approach that avoids sedition, adding that citizens should adhere to state procedures and avoid actions outside legal norms.
The Grand Mufti said peaceful gatherings and demonstrations are acceptable provided they comply with legal and regulatory frameworks, particularly those calling for accelerated transitional justice procedures and accountability for those responsible for crimes and violations.
He warned that any departure from these frameworks, whether through uncontrolled protests or acts of individual retaliation, could open the door to “widespread strife” and social instability, adding that such actions could undermine rather than advance justice efforts.
The Grand Mufti said responsibility for enforcing the law and prosecuting suspects lies with state institutions, urging citizens to place trust in judicial and official mechanisms rather than resorting to individual actions that could have serious consequences for public security.
He added that authorities possess the legal and institutional capacity to handle cases of violations, expressing hope that they will be addressed in a manner consistent with justice and fairness to meet the expectations of victims and their families while maintaining stability.
He also stressed the importance of preserving civil peace and national unity, warning against attempts to exploit public anger or direct it in ways that could lead to chaos or undermine internal security. He called for restraint and urged denying opportunities to the “advocates of strife.”
He further called on the government to expedite transitional justice procedures and accelerate investigations and accountability processes, saying this would help ease public tensions and reduce anger among victims.
He concluded by saying: “We hope the government will expedite transitional justice and bring criminals to justice so that calm is restored and full justice is achieved.”
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