Syria holds contentious parliamentary elections amidst ongoing uncertainties

Syria, emerging from nearly 14 years of civil war and the ousting of long-time president Bashar Assad in December, is preparing to conduct parliamentary elections. For the first time since the autocrat's fall, voters will engage in a significant political process, albeit one characterized by numerous limitations. The People’s Assembly comprises 210 seats, with two-thirds of these contested through electoral college votes in 50 districts. The process excludes a fully democratic structure, as approximately one-third of the seats will be appointed directly by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa. Political parties, which offered diverse representation, have been dissolved following Assad's exit. This leaves candidates to run as individuals under an electoral framework that has raised concerns about inclusivity and representation, particularly regarding women and religious or ethnic minorities. Many potential voters remain unaware of the electoral process, and some, such as Elias al-Qudsi, express skepticism about the effectiveness of a system they view as unrepresentative. The census data complicates traditional voter registration further, with millions displaced and lacking necessary documentation, raising questions about the election's integrity and outcomes. As many regions, including Druze-majority and Kurdish areas, remain unrepresented, the political landscape continues to be precarious. Activists have criticized the interim authorities for the lack of inclusivity in the elections, questioning the transition to democracy. Despite the challenges, some Syrians, focusing on basic daily needs rather than political structures, believe the need for governance remains evident.