The National Commission for Transitional Justice in Syria has asserted that there will be no amnesty for perpetrators of serious crimes and human rights violations. This statement comes after businessman Mohammed Hamsho, a figure with ties to the former Syrian regime, announced an agreement with the current government to “turn the page.”
In a statement released today, the Commission emphasized that the transitional justice process does not include any provisions for amnesty for those who committed, participated in, financed, or incited grave human rights abuses. The Commission stressed that such crimes are not subject to any statute of limitations and cannot be justified or overlooked under any circumstances.
The statement further clarified that any administrative or economic settlements currently under discussion are separate from the transitional justice process. These settlements, the Commission stated, do not constitute a substitute for judicial accountability and do not grant permanent legal immunity or exemption from responsibility.
The controversy arose after Mohammed Hamsho announced an agreement with the Syrian government, stating it would allow for a fresh start without dwelling on his past associations with the regime of former President Bashar al-Assad. This announcement triggered criticism regarding the nature of these “behind-the-scenes deals” with individuals potentially implicated in crimes against the Syrian people.
Hamsho stated on his Facebook page that a comprehensive agreement had been signed with the new government, within the framework of established legal and official procedures. He added that this measure aims to regulate his legal status and begin a new chapter, without revisiting past controversies. Hamsho also suggested that Syria is entering a new phase focused on hope and building the future through positive cooperation with state institutions, organizations, and the private sector.
Separately, the National Committee for Combating Illicit Enrichment stated that the settlement with Hamsho was conducted under the voluntary disclosure program, recently launched to promote economic justice and ensure transparency of assets and property held by businesspeople suspected of illicit gains.
