[21 Oct 2013] Assad sees no obstacles to reelection bid in 2014 - English
Description:
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says he doesn\'t rule out running for president in 2014.
In an interview with a Lebanese TV...
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Description:
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad says he doesn\'t rule out running for president in 2014.
In an interview with a Lebanese TV network, the Syrian president said he sees no obstacle to making a bid for re-election next year. Assad has stated time and again that he is not holding onto power and only the Syrian people will determine the destiny of the nation in elections. Commenting on the proposed Geneva II conference, Assad said -- factors not yet in place for peace talks. He cited the threats from al-Qaeda affiliated groups, fierce infighting among the militants, and the widening divisions in the fractured opposition. The US promptly responded to Assad\'s remarks. Secretary of State John Kerry said any attempt by Assad to be re-elected would extend the Syrian conflict. Kerry added that the Syrian opposition would never agree to Assad staying in power.