In the recent parliamentary elections in Syria, President Bashar Assad’s Baath Party emerged victorious, securing a majority of seats. The elections, held in government-controlled areas, saw 1,516 candidates vying for 250 seats. However, only 65 seats were considered competitive, as the Baath Party and its allies presented a list of 185 candidates, all of whom won seats.
Despite irregularities in some districts, including voters casting ballots twice, the results showed a turnout of 38% among the eligible 19.3 million voters. Unlike presidential elections, Syrians in the diaspora were not eligible to vote. The next parliament is anticipated to attempt passing a constitutional amendment to extend Assad’s term beyond 2028, as he faces term limits.
The election, the fourth since the civil war began in 2011, is seen as a reflection of broader representation of the Syrian people. With the majority of seats held by the Baath Party and its allies, securing an amendment requires a three-quarters majority, posing a challenge for dissenting voices within the parliament.