Defense Minister Fahd Jassem al-Freij and Minister of Electricity Imad Khamis have faced a recent barrage of criticism from regime supporters through social networking sites for the government's mishandling of a number of issues, including prolonged military service and a lack of electricity in regime-held areas.
Minister Freij, who often appears on Syrian state TV channels to inspect army positions, is facing criticism on the performance of his ministry after forcing thousands of soldiers to remain on duty after serving the mandatory service period.
The pro-regime "We Want to Be Laid Off" Facebook page criticized Freij on the quality of food served to soldiers, and the fact that soldiers are being forced to continue serving in the Syrian army.
Users published a caricature of the minister talking about ending soldiers’ service, with accompanying comments showing a state of resentment towards the long mandatory service in the regime's army.
Criticism of Freij has increased after large losses suffered by Syrian forces since the start of this year, particularly in the country’s north after opposition factions seized the city of Idleb, killing hundreds of regime soldiers and capturing many others.
Minister of Electricity Imad Khamis was also attacked by social media users who described him as a failure as regime-held areas continue to lack power. Khamis has also been under fire for the frequent rise in electricity prices and his role in raising the number of rationed hours, where electricity is only available for two or three hours a day in many areas.
This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
