Protests in Qamishli Over Ignoring National Celebrations in Presidential Decree

Dozens of citizens and activists gathered today, Tuesday, at the Zouri roundabout in the southern entrance of Qamishli city to protest a recent presidential decree issued by the head of the Transitional Government in Syria, Ahmed Al-Shara. The decree defines official holidays in the country without including national celebrations specific to several communities.

The Syriac Cultural Association had expressed its discontent yesterday over the exclusion of the Akitu festival (Babylonian-Assyrian-Syriac New Year) from the list of official holidays. Kurdish activists criticized the disregard for the Nowruz celebration, considering the decision a continuation of cultural discrimination.

Ahmed Mardelli, co-chairman of the Union of Photographers, stated that lighting the Nowruz flame in Qamishli is a symbolic message to the Transitional Government rejecting its decision. He emphasized that Nowruz is a national celebration for the Kurds and cannot be erased from the people’s memory.

Activist Najla Tammo expressed disappointment and concern over the repeated disregard for national celebrations, reflecting an exclusionary mindset. She emphasized that recognizing cultural and religious diversity is essential for building a democratic and just state.

This popular movement comes two days after the presidential decree was issued, sparking controversy in cultural and social circles in northern and eastern Syria.