The dissident former Syrian Vice President, Abdel Halim Khaddam, has urged the Syrian opposition to boycott the scheduled Geneva 2 conference on January 22. In a letter addressed to the Syrian people on Wednesday, which was received by United Press International, Khaddam stated, “The participation of the National Coalition or any Syrian party in the name of the opposition will have serious consequences, further complicating the situation in Syria.”
He cautioned that any participation exceeding the objectives of the revolution, which aims to bring about change and establish a democratic civil state with equal rights and responsibilities for all citizens, would be highly perilous. Khaddam additionally asserted that the opposition parties seeking to attend the Geneva 2 conference would be unable to achieve the Syrian people’s aspirations, as the two countries hosting the conference have decided against overthrowing the regime but instead intend to involve certain government opponents.
Accusing Russia and the United States of disregarding the Syrian people’s goals of liberation, regime overthrow, and holding perpetrators accountable for acts of murder, extermination, and humiliation, Khaddam called upon the Syrian opposition to organize a comprehensive national conference. This conference should include all factions of the Syrian opposition dedicated to working towards regime overthrow, uniting their efforts and goals with the aim of saving Syria, protecting its people, toppling the regime, and establishing a people-driven authority.
