Syrian Actor Praises Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham and Sharia Implementation
In a recent episode of the program "Above Authority," renowned Syrian actor Duraid Lahham, popularly known as "Ghawwar Al-Tosha," expressed his support for the implementation of Islamic Sharia in Syria, specifically praising the moral conduct of the militant group Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham. Lahham recounted a personal encounter with members of the group at a checkpoint, describing them as "smiling, friendly, and loving." He noted that one member expressed admiration for his work, stating, "Professor, we love you, and you were not always with us," which Lahham found touching.
The actor extended his gratitude to the new leadership in Syria, saying, "Thank you, thank you to Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham." His remarks come in the context of a shifting political landscape following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, where many artists have begun to reassess their previous allegiances.
Controversial Reflections on Freedom of Expression
During the program, host Nazih Al-Ahdab challenged Lahham on his past support for the Assad regime, questioning whether freedom of expression is appropriate in the current climate or if silence would be more prudent. Lahham has previously admitted to having complex feelings about Assad, stating, "When I told the fugitive Bashar al-Assad, ‘I love you and adore you,’ I meant that inside I hate and loathe you." This statement reflects the internal conflict many artists face in a post-Assad Syria.
Al-Ahdab also highlighted the case of another Syrian actor who was deported from Sweden after being linked to supporting the Assad regime. This actor has publicly rejected the rule of religious Muslims, expressing a desire to avoid a transition from the regime's brutality to that of the Muslim Brotherhood, indicating a struggle for identity among Syrian artists in the current sociopolitical climate.
The Shifting Landscape of Syrian Art and Politics
The discussions on the program underscore the broader implications of the Syrian conflict on its cultural figures. As the country navigates its future, artists like Lahham are grappling with their past affiliations and the evolving political landscape. The recent embrace of Islamic Sharia by influential groups like Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham signals a significant shift in the cultural and political narrative of Syria, raising questions about the future of artistic expression and freedom in the region.
