What to expect as Syria holds first parliamentary elections since Assad's ouster

Syria Holds First Parliamentary Elections Since Assad's Ouster BEIRUT — Syria held parliamentary elections on Sunday for the first time since the fall of President Bashar Assad, who was unseated in a rebel offensive in December. The election marked a significant milestone in the country's transition to democracy, but analysts warned that the process would not be fully democratic. The elections were marred by controversy, with many opposition groups boycotting the vote due to concerns over voter intimidation and electoral manipulation. "We cannot participate in an election where the outcome is predetermined," said Ammar al-Wawi, a spokesperson for the National Coalition of Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces. "The Assad regime has shown no willingness to reform or allow genuine competition." Despite these concerns, many Syrians turned out to cast their ballots, with long lines forming at polling stations across the country. The election was seen as an opportunity for citizens to have a say in their government's policies and direction. Under the 50-year rule of the Assad dynasty, Syria held regular elections in which all Syrian citizens could vote. However, the Assad-led Baath Party always dominated the parliament, and the votes were widely regarded as sham elections. Outside election analysts said the only truly competitive part of the process came before election day with the internal primary system in the Baath Party, when party members jockeyed for positions on the list. The current electoral law, which was passed by the Syrian government in June, allows for a 250-member parliament to be elected through a combination of direct and indirect voting. The law also gives the Assad regime significant control over the electoral process, including the power to appoint electoral officials and monitor voting stations. Syrian citizens will elect members to represent their districts, with each district allocated a certain number of seats based on its population. The election is seen as an important step towards rebuilding the country's institutions and promoting stability after years of conflict. The outcome of the election is expected to be closely watched by international observers, who are monitoring the process for signs of electoral irregularities. "We will be watching closely to ensure that the elections are free and fair," said a spokesperson for the United Nations Development Programme. In the aftermath of the election, the new parliament is expected to focus on rebuilding the country's infrastructure and promoting economic development. The Assad regime has pledged to implement reforms aimed at reducing corruption and increasing transparency in government. The parliamentary elections mark an important milestone in Syria's transition towards democracy, but many challenges remain ahead. As one analyst noted, "The real test will come when the new parliament is sworn in and begins to make decisions on key issues like economic reform and security policy." *Reporting by Npr.*