- 19
- Dec.
- 2024
The Syrian “mukawiin” – cultural figures who shifted from staunch regime supporters to revolutionaries following Bashar al-Assad's fall on December 8 – embody a brand of political opportunism marked by dramatic turnarounds.
The term “mukawiin” (literally “those who took a turn” and figuratively “weather vanes”) has flooded Syrian socio-media landscape since the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime on December 8. As the former president fled to Russia and rebels seized control of Damascus, a new label emerged to describe those who shifted allegiances with striking ease. But why has this term become so prevalent now, and what does it mean for the country’s cultural figures?
In Syria, the term refers to those who suddenly adopt positions that contradict their previous convictions, often driven by personal interests or opportunism. This phenomenon has also emerged among celebrities once loyal to the Assad regime. Within days, they have rebranded themselves as ardent supporters of the Syrian revolution, exhibiting a fervor that rivals that of the rebels themselves.
Opportunism as a Tactic
Among the most prominent “mukawiin,” some have made dramatic shifts in their rhetoric. For example, singer Hossam Jneed transitioned from glorifying Assad in his songs to appearing in a video praising Abu Mohammad al-Joulani, leader of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This swift turnaround highlights the adaptability of these figures, who change their message to remain in tune with the evolving political landscape.
Mayada al-Hennawy, who was once an ambassador for the regime through her songs for Bashar al-Assad and his father, Hafez, has also undergone a transformation. During a concert abroad, she expressed her “shock” at the true face of the regime. “Like everyone else, I find myself in a delicate situation,” she stated, admitting that she had "failed to see the regime’s atrocities" all these years.
Meanwhile, actor Bashar Ismail stunned the public during a televised appearance by calling Assad a “traitor,” both to his allies and to his own father. This former ardent supporter of the regime did not hesitate to switch sides on live television, once again demonstrating that opportunism knows no boundaries.
Comedian Ahmed Rafea, who had proudly touted his personal ties to the Assad family, didn't hesitate to post a video in which he thanked al-Jolani for a “bloodless revolution.”
Finally, actor Mazen al-Sayed, who once shed tears on television defending Assad and his “unparalleled kindness,” openly rejected the former regime, writing on his X account, “Congratulations to free Syria! I thought you were a good person” (referring to the ousted dictator).
Shaky Ethics
These cultural figures, once loyal to a regime or ideology, have become ardent defenders of the opposition cause. Their shifting rhetoric reflects an opportunism that undermines their credibility and casts doubt on their sincerity, writes one internet user. “These hypocrites are doomed to fail in an era where every position is meticulously documented,” he adds.
“The Syrian people, who have endured years of repression, are not fooled by these maneuvers,” says an activist. “Their collective memory recalls past positions and they will harshly judge those who switch sides with the ease of a weather vane in the wind,” he adds, expressing indignation at a “bitter reality, but one that reflects a truth nothing can alter.”
This behavior goes beyond individual actions. It reflects a deeper issue where pragmatism overrides principles. These sudden shifts undermine the credibility of the cultural elite and raise doubts about the role of values in a constantly changing political landscape. While some may hope to regain credibility, their shaky ethics and ever-changing rhetoric no longer deceive many.
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