In a major political shift, Syria is holding its first parliamentary elections since the fall of Bashar al-Assad. On Sunday, members of Syria’s electoral colleges gathered to vote for new lawmakers in what is being called a turning point for the country’s political future. This marks a key step in Syria’s attempt to rebuild its government and society after more than a decade of civil war.
This event is being closely watched across the world and has quickly become one of the Breaking News topics in Middle East politics today. Many are calling it a moment that could define Syria’s path toward stability and democracy.
A New Leadership After Years of War
President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, who came to power after his rebel forces overthrew Assad’s government in December, now faces the challenge of uniting a deeply divided country.
- The 14-year conflict left Syria shattered and created divisions between communities.
- Millions were displaced, and sectarian violence made it hard for many citizens to trust the new leadership.
- Now, Sharaa is working to build confidence through a fairer political process.
Al-Sharaa’s administration has promoted these elections as a symbol of national recovery. However, experts warn that his leadership will be judged by how inclusive and transparent this vote turns out to be.
How the Voting Process Works
Unlike traditional public elections, this vote is indirect. Around 6,000 electors from different regions of Syria are casting ballots in regional electoral colleges.
- Voting began at 9:00 a.m. local time and continued until 5:00 p.m.
- These electors will decide who gets two-thirds of the 210 parliamentary seats.
- The remaining one-third will later be handpicked by President Al-Sharaa himself.
According to Daily news highlights, around 1,570 candidates were approved by a committee chosen by the president. Candidates presented their agendas through small public meetings and televised debates. However, the campaign atmosphere was notably quiet — there were no posters, rallies, or public events in major cities like Damascus and Aleppo.
Officials explained that this indirect system was necessary because Syria’s population has been scattered by years of war, and accurate voter lists are unavailable. The Latest News reports that millions of Syrians remain displaced either inside the country or abroad.
Challenges and Criticism
Despite being described as a democratic milestone, the election has also drawn criticism. Several provinces where minority groups live were excluded from voting due to security concerns, leaving 19 seats vacant.
- Critics argue that the vote is not fully representative because it excludes large parts of the population.
- Some fear that Sharaa’s handpicking of one-third of parliament may weaken the independence of lawmakers.
- Others worry that the process gives too much control to the central government, echoing the tightly managed systems of the past.
Political analysts believe the composition of the parliament will reflect Sharaa’s true intentions. If he includes women and minorities, it could signal a more inclusive Syria. But if he fills seats with loyal supporters, it might limit the new parliament’s power to challenge his policies.
A Step Toward Hope or Control?
The results of the vote are expected later tonight, but Syria’s journey toward full democracy will take much longer. Many citizens hope this election will finally bring peace, jobs, and basic stability after years of war and hardship.
International observers and global leaders are watching closely to see whether this vote truly represents a new beginning or just a continuation of political control under a new face. For now, the mood in Syria is a mix of hope and skepticism.
As this historic election unfolds, one thing is clear — Syria stands at a crossroads. The outcome will determine whether the country continues to rebuild under inclusive leadership or returns to old patterns of power and mistrust.
