All segments of Syrian society faced oppression under Baath regime: Alawite leader

All segments of Syrian society have faced oppression and suffering under the Baath regime, a prominent leader of Syria's Alawite community said.

Speaking to Anadolu, Raci Nasir stressed that Syria is a country with a rich history and civilization.

"The religions of mercy, love, and goodness originated from this country. Historically, we have lived a life of love, brotherhood, and compassion in this land."

"Syria is a spring, and this spring is not made up of just one flower," he said.

Nasir stated that the differences in religion and sect in the country are a source of richness, adding: "Throughout history, all sects have lived together in this country. These sects live together in an environment of love and respect."

He noted that the collapsing Baath regime divided all segments of society.

"The regime sowed seeds of hatred among all the colors of society and spread oppression. It inflicted injustice on every segment of our community in Syria."

The responsibility for the crimes committed by the Assad regime should not be placed on any specific segment of society, he said.

Just as all segments of society suffered under oppression, the Alawite community also faced injustice and victimization by the Assad regime, Nasir added.

"The responsibility for these crimes should lie with the prominent figures who collaborated with the regime. We must hold them accountable."

Nasir highlighted the brutality at Sednaya Prison, which has sparked outrage in the international community.

"What happened at Sednaya Prison is an extremely dangerous and inhuman crime. In this prison, regardless of which sect you belong to, everyone who opposed the regime was held there," Nasir said.

Nasir expressed hope that all segments of society would live together in unity and harmony with a new government in Syria.

Bashar al-Assad, Syria's leader for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups took control of Damascus on Dec. 8, marking the end of the Baath Party's regime, which had ruled since 1963.