Syrians Head to the Polls Amid Ongoing Civil War and Calls for Boycott

Ballot Boxes Open for People’s Assembly Elections

Damascus, Syria – Syrians are casting their votes today in an election that is set to shape the country’s legislative future amidst a backdrop of ongoing civil conflict and calls for boycott in certain regions. The voting process, which commenced at 7:00 am, marks the start of the fourth legislative term for the People’s Assembly, with 1,516 candidates competing for 250 seats.

The election is being conducted under the strict supervision of the Supreme Judicial Elections Committee, which oversees everything from candidate nomination to the announcement of results. The committee has set up 8,151 ballot boxes across 15 voting districts, which will remain open until 7:00 pm. According to the General Elections’ Law, the voting period may be extended by the Supreme Elections’ Committee for up to five additional hours at some or all polling stations if needed.

Supervision and Transparency

The Higher Supreme Judicial Committee for elections has assured the public of its readiness to facilitate a transparent and smooth electoral process, providing all necessary requirements for the electoral centers. Despite these assurances, the elections are taking place in an atmosphere of skepticism and political unrest.

Impact of the Civil War

This parliamentary election is the fourth to take place since the onset of the civil war in 2011, which began following mass anti-government protests and a severe crackdown by security forces. The conflict has since resulted in significant displacement and suffering for millions of Syrians. However, the election proceeds in government-controlled areas, where security measures have been intensified.

Exclusion of the Diaspora

One significant point of contention is the exclusion of the millions of Syrians living abroad from participating in these parliamentary elections. Unlike presidential elections, the Syrian diaspora, which has grown considerably due to the war, is not allowed to vote in parliamentary polls.

Boycott in Sweida and General Sentiments

In the southern province of Sweida, home to a Druze-majority population, anti-government protests have been a regular occurrence for nearly a year. Many in this region have called for a boycott of the elections. Videos circulating online depict protesters seizing ballot boxes off a truck to prevent them from reaching polling stations.

Elsewhere in the country, election campaigns have been relatively subdued, with candidates promoting generic slogans such as national unity and prosperity.

Assad’s Baath Party and Future Implications

In the 2020 parliamentary elections, President Bashar Assad’s Baath Party secured 166 seats, nearly two-thirds of the assembly’s membership, alongside 17 seats won by allied parties. Independent candidates claimed the remaining 67 seats. With Assad facing term limits that could end his presidency in 2028, it is anticipated that the new parliament might attempt to pass a constitutional amendment to extend his term.

A Nation at a Crossroads

As Syrians cast their votes, the nation remains at a critical juncture. The outcome of these elections could have significant implications for Syria’s future governance and stability. The election process itself, marked by both participation and boycott, reflects the deep divisions and ongoing challenges facing the country.

As the polling stations close and votes are counted, the world watches closely to see how Syria navigates this complex electoral landscape amidst its prolonged conflict.