Syria holds first parliamentary elections since Assad’s ouster

Damascus: Syria’s transitional authorities on Sunday launched the country’s first parliamentary elections since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad last December, marking a key step in the nation’s political transition.

Polling began at 9 a.m. local time across most provinces for the 210-seat People’s Assembly, the Higher Committee for People’s Assembly Elections said. Voting by members of local electoral bodies will continue until noon, with the option of extending to 4 p.m. if required, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to committee spokesman Nawar Najmeh, ballot boxes will be opened in public once voting ends, with preliminary results expected the same day and final outcomes early next week after any objections are reviewed.

Under the temporary electoral framework, two-thirds of the parliament will be elected while one-third will be appointed by Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. Officials said this arrangement aims to secure representation for all regions and communities during the transitional phase.

Unlike direct nationwide voting, the process is being conducted through local electoral bodies composed of community representatives, selected earlier this year. These groups are responsible for both managing the polls and choosing MPs from among themselves. Najmeh explained this method allows greater participation given that many Syrians remain displaced or lack official documents.

More than 1,500 candidates, including 14 per cent women, are competing across 50 districts. Elections will not be held in parts of Raqqa, Hasakah and Sweida provinces due to ongoing security and logistical challenges.

Najmeh said the system has been designed to ensure broad representation in the new parliament, including women, the disabled and families of war victims.