He gave a larger role to Bassel al - Assad , who was rumored to be his father 's planned successor ; this kindled jealousy within the government .
Instead of changing his policy , Assad tried to protect his power by honing his governmental model .
Assad gave a larger role to Bassel al - Assad , who was rumored to be Assad 's father 's planned successor ; this kindled jealousy within the government .
Instead of changing his policy , Assad tried to protect his power by honing his governmental model .