Syria's First Post-Assad Elections Highlight Sectarian Tensions and Limited Representation

Sat Oct 11 2025 05:54:14 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Syria will conduct its first parliamentary elections since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, but significant regions remain excluded, raising concerns over representation and ongoing sectarian violence.

Syria is set to hold its first parliamentary elections since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, with concerns over inclusivity and the exclusion of certain regions. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasizes a need for a transitional period while the electoral setup faces criticism for lacking transparency and representation.

Syria will hold its first parliamentary elections on Sunday since the fall of Bashar al-Assad, amid concerns over inclusivity and successive delays.

There will be no direct vote for the People's Assembly, which will be responsible for legislation during a transitional period. Instead, electoral colleges will select representatives for two-thirds of the 210 seats, while interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa appoints the rest.

Sharaa's forces ousted Assad over ten months ago amidst a bloody civil war. Authorities postponed polls in Kurdish-controlled provinces and regions affected by sectarian violence, delaying the electoral process.

This election, overseen by a committee appointed by Sharaa, is being scrutinized due to its potential lack of transparency and effectiveness in representing the populace. Concerns have been raised about the president's direct influence over parliament, with critics arguing it undermines the democratic process.

Long-standing issues remain in regions such as Raqqa and Hassakeh, dominated by Kurdish militias, while Suweida faces tensions from recent conflicts among Druze militias. With over 1,500 candidates vying for election, the scenario illustrates a complex web of political dynamics in post-Assad Syria.

Sharaa has maintained that logistical and security concerns hinder a more widespread electoral process, but many citizens express skepticism regarding the government's commitment to genuine representation.

As Syria embarks on this pivotal electoral journey, the actions of the interim government and the response from diverse community leaders will be critical in shaping the nation's future.