Syria Votes in First Post-Assad Parliament Election

Syria Votes in First Post-Assad Parliament Election
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Syria is holding an indirect vote today, Sunday, for its first parliament since the regime of Bashar al-Assad was toppled in December. This milestone election is a key step in the country’s transition under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

According to Al Arabiya English, a total of 6,000 electors are casting ballots at regional electoral colleges to select new lawmakers. A committee approved 1,570 candidates, who showcased their platforms throughout the past week.

The indirect vote will determine two-thirds of the 210-seat parliament, with results expected tonight. The remaining third of the legislature will be appointed by President al-Sharaa. Authorities opted for this system over universal suffrage due to massive displacement and a lack of reliable population data following 14 years of war. The vote was postponed in three minority-held provinces for security and political reasons, leaving 19 seats temporarily empty.