Syrian Activists Dismiss Ongoing Parliamentary Elections as Symbolic

Syrian Activists Dismiss Ongoing Parliamentary Elections as Symbolic
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Syrian activists and political observers have described the ongoing parliamentary elections in government-controlled areas as “symbolic” and “undemocratic,” saying they do not reflect the will of the Syrian people. Voting began on Sunday, October 5, amid widespread criticism over the process’s legitimacy and transparency.

Observers said the elections resemble an appointment process, with Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) leader Abu Mohammad al-Jolani reportedly controlling a large share of the seats and influencing candidate selection. Millions of Syrians, particularly in the country’s northeast, Suwayda, and other regions, were excluded from participation.

Critics also cited the absence of international monitoring and the election committee’s authority to disqualify candidates on “security grounds.” Analysts warned that the vote reinforces political exclusion under HTS rule, comparing it to elections held under the former Baath regime.