Syria's interim president signed a temporary constitution on Thursday, establishing Islamist rule for a five-year transitional period, along with rights for women, freedom of expression and justice for Assad victims.

Syria’s leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has hailed the start of a “new history” for his country, after signing into force a constitutional declaration.

Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, expressed hope that the constitutional declaration would mark the beginning “a new history for Syria, where we replace oppression with justice … and suffering with mercy,” as he signed the document at the presidential palace on Thursday.

The document says Islam is the religion of the president, as the previous constitution did, and Islamic jurisprudence is "the main source of legislation", rather than "a main source", according to the drafting committee.

It also enshrines separation of powers and judicial independence, and guarantees women's rights, freedom of expression and media freedom.

The president would have executive authority during the transitional period, he said, but would have only one "exceptional power" – the ability to declare a state of emergency.

A new People's Assembly will have full responsibility for legislation. Two thirds of its members will be appointed by a committee selected by the president and one third chosen by the president himself.

Sharaa has promised an inclusive government that will run the country until the new constitution is finalised and free and fair elections are held.

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