As fidelity to the leader replaced ideological conviction later in his presidency , corruption became widespread .
Assad institutionalised a system where he had the final say , which weakened the powers of the collegial institutions of the state and party .
As fidelity to the leader replaced ideological conviction later in Assad 's presidency , corruption became widespread .
Assad institutionalised a system where he had the final say , which weakened the powers of the collegial institutions of the state and party .