Demonstrations are taking place in a growing number of cities and villages. The president approves the new cabinet, but most of its members are from the old. He also announces the release of prisoners, but more people are being arrested. Among those who were freed, many talk about torture.

Beirut (AsiaNews) – Today was another Friday of blood and protest in Syria, despite President Assad’s continued attempts to placate the population by releasing some prisoners and promising reforms that do not materialise. News of demonstrations indicate that protests are spreading across the country.

Not only is the capital Damascus affected but so are cities like Aleppo, Banias, Douma, Daraa, Homs, al-Soueida, Deir al-Zour, al-Qamishli, Amouda, Derbesia, Derek, Seri Kanyeh and Ras al-Ain. Unconfirmed reports say that clashes have erupted in the village of Mohammadieh in Deir al-Zour after police tried to prevent residents from entering a mosque. One person was killed in the incident. People were also wounded in Latakia

Everywhere, people in the streets are shouting “freedom”. Security forces have been deployed in great numbers but despite attempts at dispersing the crowds, they appear to be holding back. Other reports indicate however, that they carried out many arrests.

For his part, Assad is still promoting the idea that he is making changes. Syria’s government-controlled media continue to focus on the country’s new government under Adel Safar, who was Agriculture minister in the previous cabinet. In fact, the key ministries (Foreign Affairs, Defence, Presidential Affairs, Communications and Technology) in the new government will be held by the same people who held them in the old cabinet.

Assad’s announcement that all protesters arrested in recent weeks would be released as long as they did not engage in any criminal act against the nation and the people could turn against him.

Not only can the authorities keep in jail anyone they want given the vagueness of the announcement, but they also face the possibility that the people they do let go might confirm allegations of torture made by Human Rights Watch.

The human rights organisation said in fact that 19 people jailed in Damascus, Deraa, Douma, al-Tal, Homs and Banias and their families have complained about torture. (PD)

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