Syria Holds First Post-Assad Parliamentary Elections Amid Criticisms of Undemocratic Process

Syria Holds First Parliamentary Elections Since Fall of Assad Regime

Syria held its first parliamentary elections since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Voting concluded on Sunday, October 5, 2025, with vote counting underway in several provinces. The election is considered a significant step in the country's fragile transition after nearly 14 years of war and is led by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The Electoral Process

The election utilizes a hybrid system. Two-thirds of the 210 members of the People’s Assembly were chosen by electoral colleges, while the remaining one-third will be appointed directly by al-Sharaa. This process has drawn criticism for its limited democratic nature, with critics saying it favors well-connected figures and concentrates power in the hands of the new rulers.

• Electoral Colleges: 140 seats were voted on by electoral colleges around the country, with representation distributed by population.
• Presidential Appointments: 70 seats will be directly appointed by al-Sharaa.
• Postponed Elections: Elections in the restive Druze-majority province of Suwayda and northeastern areas controlled by the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces were postponed due to tensions.

Reactions and Perspectives

Despite the criticisms, some observers see the elections as a necessary step in rebuilding Syria. Al-Sharaa hailed the election as a key moment in rebuilding the country, stating that it allows the country to “engage in an electoral process suited for its current circumstances.” Some Syrians also view this as their first real taste of an election after decades of Assad family rule.

“This historic moment among Syrians is very important. There are many pending laws that need to be voted on to advance the process of construction and prosperity.” - Ahmed al-Sharaa

However, concerns remain about the lack of transparency in the selection of electors and the representation of minorities and women. While efforts are being made to ensure fair representation through presidential appointments, some analysts worry about potential manipulation and the exclusion of certain regions.

Challenges Ahead

The incoming parliament faces significant challenges, including rebuilding the struggling economy, addressing security concerns with territories controlled by various factions, and ensuring representation for different groups within Syria’s diverse population. The success of this parliament will be crucial in determining whether Syria can transition towards a constitutional democracy.

Al-Sharaa's leadership and the incoming parliament are now tasked with dismantling the mechanisms of the old regime and building a new Syria that reflects the aspirations of its people. The world will be watching closely to see if this process can lead to a more inclusive and democratic future.