Damascus
Syria’s transitional authorities began the country’s first parliamentary elections since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad last December, marking a key step in its post-war political transition.
Polling opened at 9 a.m. local time across most provinces for members of local electoral bodies to vote for the 210-seat People’s Assembly, the Higher Committee for People’s Assembly Elections said. Voting will continue until noon and could be extended to 4 p.m. if needed. Preliminary results are expected the same day, with final results announced early next week after objections are reviewed.
Under a temporary system, two-thirds of parliament members will be elected while one-third will be appointed by Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Officials say this system is meant to ensure fair representation of all regions and communities during the transition.
Instead of a direct public vote, local electoral bodies — chosen earlier this year — are selecting MPs from among themselves. This process, officials say, allows wider participation despite challenges such as displacement and lost documents.
Over 1,500 candidates, including 14 per cent women, are contesting across 50 electoral districts. Voting in parts of Raqqa, Hasakah, and Sweida is postponed until conditions improve.
Spokesman Nawar Najmeh said the system is designed to reflect Syria’s diverse population, including women, disabled persons, and families of war victims, as the nation takes another step toward rebuilding democracy.
