Syria is set to hold its initial parliamentary elections after Assad’s fall from 15 to 20 September 2025, under interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. This critical move aims to establish democratic governance amidst ongoing sectarian strife.
Overview
Syria will conduct its first parliamentary elections since the fall of Bashar al-Assad between 15 and 20 September 2025, marking a crucial step in the nation’s political transition. The polls, announced amid violent sectarian unrest in the Sweida province, will take place under the leadership of interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Background
- In December 2024, the Assad regime collapsed after a rebel offensive, ending over two decades of Bashar al-Assad’s rule.
- A temporary constitution signed in March 2025 established a transitional framework under President Ahmad al-Sharaa.
Significance
- The elections are a test of Syria’s post-war democracy, offering Syrians the first chance to shape their legislature in the post-Assad era.
- The credibility and inclusiveness of the polls are crucial for Syria’s transition to stability.
Objectives
- Establish a representative People’s Assembly for guiding the country during the transitional phase.
- One-third of the 210 parliamentary seats will be appointed by the interim president, while the rest will be filled through elections supervised by electoral colleges.
Key Features
- Election Dates: Between 15 and 20 September 2025.
- Total Seats: 210 in the People’s Assembly.
- Seat Division: One-third appointed by President al-Sharaa; two-thirds elected.
- Electoral Colleges: Established in every Syrian province for voting.
- Oversight Body: Higher Committee for People’s Assembly Elections, headed by Mohammed Taha al-Ahmad.
Challenges
- Recent sectarian violence in Sweida resulted in over 1,100 casualties, emphasizing divisions between armed Bedouin clans and the Druze minority.
- Reports of Syrian government forces supporting clans and committing atrocities have heightened tensions.
- Israeli airstrikes against Syrian government forces have further destabilized the region, posing questions about the conduct of the polls.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Syria’s first post-Assad parliamentary elections are scheduled for 15-20 September 2025.
- Interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa will oversee the elections aiming to rebuild democratic governance.
- The polls face challenges due to ongoing sectarian violence and regional destabilization.
