Syrian president issues republican decree to form political parties committee

 DAMASCUS, Aug 22 (KUNA) -- Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad issued a republican decree on Monday ordering the setup of a committee to oversee political parties affairs and it is to be presided by Interior Minister Major General Muhammad Ibrahim Al-Shaar.
The first article of the decree states that the committee is presided by the interior minister and its members are Justice Mohammad Rqayah as Deputy Chairman, counselor Ibrahim Mohammad Wajih Al-Maliki, Dr. Mohmoud Hasan, and counselor Ali Milhim.
The decree was issued following the interview on Syrian TV with Al-Assad last night, in which he discussed the current state of affairs and reforms.
In the interview, Al-Assad had revealed intent to issue new laws and decrees relating to political parties, elections, and local administration, which are due within a few days. He also expected parliamentary elections to take place in February 2012, with Syria having completed its legislative and electoral reforms by then.(end) am.wsa KUNA 221244 Aug 11NNNN