Syria Holds Indirect Vote to Elect First Parliament Since Assad’s Ouster

On Sunday, members of Syria’s electoral colleges are set to vote for a new parliament in what is seen as a key moment in the country’s political transition following the departure of Bashar al-Assad. The vote marks an important step in the efforts to form a new legislative body under the leadership of President Ahmed al-Sharaa, who assumed power after opposition forces ousted Assad in December.
Sharaa, who previously fought with Islamist rebel groups, is working to consolidate authority in a country still grappling with the effects of a 14-year conflict and deep sectarian divisions. His leadership has faced skepticism, particularly from minority communities.
Around 6,000 electors are expected to participate in the vote, held at regional electoral colleges beginning at 9:00 a.m. local time (0600 GMT) and concluding by 5:00 p.m. (1400 GMT). The vote will fill two-thirds of the 210 seats in the new parliament, with the remaining third to be appointed directly by the president. Results are anticipated later the same evening.
A total of 1,570 candidates were approved by a committee established by the current administration. These candidates presented their policy proposals during organised seminars and debates in the lead-up to the vote. However, public campaigning appeared subdued, with limited visibility in major urban areas.
The newly elected parliament is expected to play a central role in shaping Syria’s future governance, though its full formation will depend on presidential appointments following the election.