Syria has announced its first parliamentary elections since the fall of President Bashar al-Assad, a significant milestone in the country’s political transition. Set for September,the election is viewed as a test of the interim government’s commitment to rebuilding democratic institutions.
The transitional authorities, led by an interim president, will hold the vote in all of the biggest provinces. The elections are expected to choose members to sit on a new People’s Assembly with legislative powers during a transition phase. This body will have the authority to endorse laws and write a longer-term constitution for the country.
For many Syrians, it is the first opportunity in years to be involved in determining the future of their country. The overthrow of the Assad government brought an end to several decades of authoritarian rule, but it also created a power vacuum and set off deep-seated social fissures. The new elections seek to bridge gaps between rival groups and provide national representation.
The number of seats in parliament has been increased to better represent the population and the various regions of Syria as a whole.Election commissions will be comprised of legal experts,members from civil society and community leaders,to ensure the process is conducted fairly.Women,and young candidates also are being specially included in the list of candidates going to be released.
