Syria Sets September Parliamentary Elections
Syria is preparing to hold parliamentary elections from 15 to 20 September 2025. These will be the first elections since the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad in a swift rebel offensive in December 2024. The political landscape remains fragile with ongoing sectarian violence and foreign interventions complicating the transition.
Election Framework and New Authorities
The elections will fill 140 of the 210 parliamentary seats by popular vote. The remaining 70 seats will be appointed by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. This interim arrangement follows the adoption of a temporary constitution in March 2025. The constitution established a People’s Committee as a provisional parliament until a permanent constitution is drafted and general elections conducted, a process expected to take several years.
Electoral Process and Provincial Colleges
An electoral college system will be set up in each province to oversee the election of the 140 elected seats. This system aims to ensure local representation and manage voting logistics. The Higher Committee for People’s Assembly Elections, chaired by Mohammed Taha al-Ahmad, is responsible for organising the process. The committee seeks to legitimise the elections amid ongoing political instability.
Sectarian Violence and Political Divisions
The announcement comes amid rising sectarian tensions, especially in the southern province of Suwayda. Recent clashes between armed Bedouin clans and the Druze minority resulted in hundreds of deaths. The violence was triggered by reciprocal kidnappings and escalated into armed confrontations. Government forces intervened but sided with the Bedouin clans, reportedly committing abuses against Druze civilians, including executions and property destruction.
Foreign Intervention and Regional Impact
Israel launched airstrikes targeting Syrian government forces and the Defence Ministry headquarters. The strikes were justified by Israel as a defence of the Druze minority. This intervention marks the complex regional dynamics and the continuing proxy conflicts influencing Syria’s internal affairs. The fragile postwar transition faces threats from both internal divisions and external pressures.
Challenges Ahead for Syria’s Transition
The elections are a critical step in Syria’s tentative move towards political normalisation. However, the ongoing violence and foreign involvement pose challenges. The interim government must balance power-sharing, manage sectarian grievances, and work towards a stable constitutional framework. The path to peace and democracy remains uncertain amid deep-rooted conflicts.
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