Syria’s President Bashar al Asad has accepted the resignation of veteran Defense Minister Mustafa Tlas. According to the Jordanian newspaper Addustur, the resignation will come into effect this coming July.
Late President Hafiz al-Asad made Tlas, Minister of Defense back in March 1972. The Jordanian newspaper quotes Tlas’ letter of resignation in which he wrote to Bashar that: “….The young generations should have the opportunity to step into the highest positions within the administration”.
It is reported that President Bashar is planning on an extensive personnel changes in the Syrian army this coming July, so that the resignation of the Defense Minister will not be an isolated case. A few weeks ago, the Syrian Chief of Staff, Ali Aslan retired at an age over 70, having served in that position for more than four years.
Tlas was born on May 11, 1932 and is considered an old associate of al-Asad family. He met the late Hafiz al-Asad nearly half a century ago at the Homs Military Academy. Since then he has been the President’s confidant as well.
Tlas is reputable for serving as an instrument through which the Syrian regime has been venting some political opinions. Tlas is often being referred to as “a loose cannon”. (Albawaba.com)
