Syria’s First Elections Post-Assad: A Historic Vote with Regional Disparities

Syria is preparing for its first parliamentary elections since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. This event marks a significant change for a country that has seen over a decade of civil war. The elections, set for Sunday, are raising questions about fairness and accessibility.

Instead of a direct vote, an “electoral college” will select representatives for two-thirds of the 210 seats in the People’s Assembly. The interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, will appoint the remaining members. This setup has led to concerns about genuine representation. Some fear that the president’s influence could overshadow the election’s legitimacy.

Since Assad’s departure last December, the country has struggled with security in several areas. Elections were postponed in three provinces: Raqqa, Hassakeh, and Suweida. This means that not all districts will participate, diluting the voting process.

The electoral college consists of over 1,500 candidates, but only those who meet specific criteria are allowed to participate. Individuals linked to the previous regime or those promoting division are barred. There’s also a push to have at least 20% of the electoral college be women, yet this does not guarantee female representation in the assembly.

In a recent statement at the UN General Assembly, Sharaa vowed to establish a new state in Syria that protects citizens’ rights. However, critics argue that the current election framework does not empower the people. Fourteen civil society groups have expressed that the elections could be “symbolic at best,” failing to ensure true representation.

Sharaa defended the election process, citing difficulties due to a lack of documentation and the large number of Syrian refugees still abroad. He acknowledged that security conditions in certain areas made traditional voting impossible. This view, however, is met with skepticism. Many locals feel excluded from the political process.

Social media reactions highlight a mix of hope and frustration. Some users express optimism for a new direction, while others see the elections as a facade masking ongoing authoritarian control. As Hussam Nasreddin, a Jaramana resident, stated, “The People’s Assembly should be elected by the people.”

The challenges facing these elections are not just technical but deeply rooted in Syria’s historical context. After a civil war that claimed over 600,000 lives, many wonder if this new political chapter can genuinely reflect the will of the people. As the elections approach, the nation watches closely, hopeful yet anxious about the path ahead.

For more information on the intricate political landscape in Syria, you can read reports from the United Nations or check out Reuters for the latest news.



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