Syria Faces Uncertain Future as Parliamentary Elections Held

UPDATE: Syria conducted its first parliamentary elections in decades on October 5, 2024, amid widespread skepticism regarding their legitimacy and impact. The elections, held under President Ahmed al-Sharaa‘s transitional government, saw only a few thousand citizens participate through a convoluted electoral college system, raising concerns about true democratic representation.

With the backdrop of a country still grappling with the aftermath of Hafez al-Assad’s authoritarian regime, many observers are questioning whether this election signifies genuine progress or merely perpetuates old patterns of governance. Adham Masoud al-Qaq, a notable figure in Syria’s reform movement, returned from exile to participate, marking a pivotal moment for political engagement in the war-torn nation.

Amidst a backdrop of uncertainty, only about 6,000 delegates were selected to fill 119 of the 210 parliamentary seats, with many constituencies delaying elections indefinitely due to ongoing security issues. The lack of public awareness about the elections has been alarming, with many citizens reportedly unaware that the process was even happening.

The government justified the limited electoral participation, citing the “presence of millions of internally and externally displaced persons” and the “fragility of the legal structure.” In a June statement, officials argued that traditional elections were impossible under current conditions. However, critics like Radwan Ziadeh from the Arab Center Washington DC argue that these elections cannot be deemed legitimate, calling it a mere “formation of Syrian legislative power.”

The elections revealed stark trends in representation. Only 6 seats were won by women, and 10 were captured by minority candidates, while the majority of elected officials were Sunni men from the elite. The elections, although framed as a step towards democratization, are viewed by many as a mechanism to consolidate Sharaa’s power.

Despite the oppressive atmosphere, there were signs of civic engagement. In a series of candidate meetings, delegates expressed enthusiasm for participating in a process that many viewed as a faint glimmer of hope for change. Qaq mentioned that while direct threats were absent, the outcome appeared predetermined, highlighting the flawed nature of the electoral process.

On October 15, Sharaa met with Vladimir Putin in Moscow, and he is scheduled to meet with Donald Trump in November, marking significant diplomatic efforts as he navigates the complexities of leadership in a transitioning Syria.

While some candidates like Mouyad Zaidan faced personal safety issues, including kidnapping attempts linked to remnants of the Assad regime, they remain committed to the political process, underscoring the resilience of those seeking change. Zaidan, reflecting on the elections, remarked, “I had a chance to succeed… we ask Allah for everyone’s success and prosperity,” encapsulating the hope that persists despite daunting challenges.

The coming weeks will be critical as the assembly convenes under Sharaa’s oversight. With a transitional period set to last five years, the world watches to see if Syria can break from its authoritarian past or if old habits will dominate the new political landscape.

Stay tuned for further updates on Syria’s evolving political situation.