Syria’s first elections after Assad: a test of legitimacy

Syria is preparing for its first national elections since the fall of Bashar al-Assad last year a milestone moment for the transitional government as it seeks to establish new political institutions and test its ability to deliver legitimacy after decades of authoritarian rule.

Denial of Postponement Exclusive to The Beiruter

While local media reported a postponement, Emad Zahran, Media Coordinator of the Higher Committee for People’s Assembly Elections, denied any delay in comments to The Beiruter, stressing that “elections will be held before the end of the month.” He revealed that candidacy applications for electoral bodies are under review and that the names would be announced “within two days” a statement that directly contradicts earlier speculation.

How the Elections Work

Unlike traditional popular votes, the process will rely on indirect electoral colleges established by subcommittees in each governorate. These bodies will elect 140 of the 210 members of parliament, while President Ahmad al-Sharaa will appoint the remaining 70. Quotas have been set for women and people with disabilities, though only members of the electoral colleges are eligible to run.

The process has been widely criticized by human rights groups as deeply flawed and open to manipulation. Yet Syrian officials argue that, with millions displaced and lacking documents or addresses, a nationwide popular vote is currently impossible.

Benjamin Fève, senior analyst at Karama Shaar Advisory Limited, told The Beiruter that while the system is imperfect, postponement may be pragmatic:

I would much prefer the authorities taking time to organize something credible rather than rushing into elections that could trigger protests and undermine legitimacy

Exclusion of Sweida and Kurdish Areas

Controversially, voting will not take place in Sweida or in parts of Raqqa and Hasakah under Kurdish-led control, with officials citing insecurity and political tensions. Fève acknowledged that this exclusion undermines inclusivity but noted that organizing elections there would involve “significant security risks.”

Glimmers of Reform

Despite skepticism, the Higher Elections Committee has been more consultative than other transitional bodies. Meetings with local dignitaries and activists helped expand parliament’s size from 150 to 210 seats, while legal safeguards now allow citizens to appeal decisions on electoral bodies and candidates.

Questions persist over Syria’s future and the extent to which these elections can mark a genuine break from its authoritarian legacy.