Syria Holds Indirect Elections as President Sharaa Seeks to Cement Post-Assad Power

Syria is set to hold an indirect parliamentary election on Sunday, marking a pivotal step in the country’s political transition following the ouster of Bashar al-Assad. The vote, organized by the new Islamist-led government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa, comes as the nation struggles to rebuild trust after more than a decade of war and sectarian conflict.

Around 6,000 electors from regional colleges will cast their ballots beginning at 9:00 a.m. local time (0600 GMT), with polls closing at 5:00 p.m. (1400 GMT). The election will fill two-thirds of the 210 parliamentary seats, while the remaining 70 will be appointed directly by Sharaa. Results are expected by Sunday night, though the new parliament will only be formalized once his appointees are named.

The electoral committee, formed by Sharaa, has approved 1,570 candidates who presented their platforms through debates and seminars. However, the campaign period saw little visible promotion—Reuters reporters noted an absence of posters or billboards in major cities, signaling subdued public engagement.

Authorities defend the indirect voting system, citing the absence of reliable population data and the displacement of millions of Syrians. Voting was postponed in three provinces dominated by minority groups for “security and political” reasons, leaving 19 seats vacant.

Critics argue that the process lacks inclusivity and transparency, calling it a managed attempt to legitimize Sharaa’s rule. Analysts note that his choice of appointed lawmakers will define the credibility of the new legislature. Appointing women and minority figures could boost legitimacy, but favoring loyalists may secure unchallenged authority.

This election represents both a test of Syria’s democratic promise and a measure of Sharaa’s ability to unify a fractured nation under a post-Assad order.