Damascus / Various locations: Vote counting is underway across Syria after the country held what are being described as its first parliamentary elections since the end of the Assad era. The results, expected in phases, mark a controversial step in Syria’s fragile political transition.
What Took Place
In this election, 140 of the 210 seats in Syria’s new legislature, the People’s Assembly, were filled through electoral colleges, groups of electors chosen to cast ballots for candidates. The remaining 70 seats will be appointed directly by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Voting concluded in most districts, and results are to be announced at a national press conference later the same day.
Some areas, including the Druze-majority province of Suwayda and parts of the northeast controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, saw indefinite postponements due to tensions with central authorities.
The Pushback: Criticism and Concerns
Observers and rights groups have raised serious objections to the process.
Critics argue that the system was designed to favor individuals connected to the new power structure rather than promoting genuine political pluralism or accountability.
A coalition of more than a dozen Syrian and international NGOs warned that President al-Sharaa can effectively shape a parliamentary majority composed of individuals loyal to him, undermining the idea of real competition.
Bassam Alahmad, executive director of Syrians for Truth and Justice, summed up the sentiment:
“You can call the process what you like, but not elections.”
One of the main criticisms centers on the lack of popular suffrage. Ordinary citizens did not vote directly. The government defended this model by pointing to the practical difficulties of organizing a nationwide election in a country where millions are displaced, many lack documentation, and accurate population counts are uncertain.
Scholars and analysts have also questioned the selection process for the electoral colleges, noting the lack of transparency and potential for manipulation.
Representation gaps are evident: only about 14 percent of candidates are women, and several regions excluded from voting will leave seats empty.
The electoral committee has said that the president may use his appointed seats to correct underrepresentation of women and minorities, aiming for women to make up at least one-fifth of the new parliament.
What the Government Says
From the state’s perspective, President al-Sharaa described the election as a historic moment in Syria’s reconstruction and urged the parliament to prepare for drafting laws essential to rebuilding institutions and restoring stability.
He defended the hybrid electoral model as an adaptation to Syria’s current realities, particularly the logistical and demographic challenges that remain after years of war.
Officials also emphasized that using appointed seats provides flexibility to ensure representation and balance within the new legislature.
The Stakes Ahead
Despite the criticism, this parliament carries symbolic and practical importance for Syria’s political future.
Over its 30-month term, the new assembly is expected to lay the groundwork for future direct popular elections. Yet its success will depend on whether it can act as a genuine legislative body or merely a formality within the new power structure.
Beyond politics, the challenges are immense: rebuilding infrastructure, reviving the economy, restoring public services, and reconciling regions still divided by years of conflict.
Analysts warn that the real test will be whether this parliament becomes a platform for national recovery and accountability or another chapter in a managed transition.