Syrian Elections Under Sharaa: Limited Power, Low Turnout

UPDATE: Syria has just held its first parliamentary elections in nearly a decade, but the turnout and significance are raising eyebrows. On October 5, 2025, only a few thousand voters participated in a tiered electoral process that many are criticizing as a façade of democracy under President Ahmed al-Sharaa.

The elections came less than a year after the collapse of the Assad regime on December 8, 2024, which saw many exiles, including Adham Masoud al-Qaq, return to Syria. While Qaq was nominated to represent the Damascus suburb of Jaramana, concerns are mounting about the actual power of the newly elected assembly.

Authorities have confirmed that the assembly, filled by approximately 6,000 delegates, will have limited legislative powers, mainly acting on bills initiated by the executive branch. Seventy seats out of 210 total are set to be directly appointed by Sharaa by the end of October, but he has yet to finalize those selections due to high-profile diplomatic obligations, including meetings with Vladimir Putin and former President Donald Trump.

Qaq, who faced prior imprisonment for advocating democratic reforms, described the election process as heavily manipulated. “We could clearly sense that this or that person would win as a representative before the voting even took place,” he stated in an interview with Foreign Policy. With only six women elected out of 119 seats contested, the election’s legitimacy is under severe scrutiny.

Despite the limited participation, there was a surprising enthusiasm among candidates. Meetings in cities like Homs showcased a budding interest in civic engagement, with some delegates expressing hope for future reforms. However, many voters remained unaware that elections were even occurring, emphasizing the opaque nature of the process.

Mouyad Zaidan, a candidate from Damascus, highlighted the ongoing threat posed by remnants of the Assad regime, stating, “The same criminals who committed atrocities are now scattered among us.” This sentiment reflects a deep concern over safety and genuine political reform in a country long dominated by authoritarian rule.

As the new assembly takes shape, the world will be watching closely. The transitional government has promised to establish a five-year period of reforms, but skepticism remains high. Political analysts warn that without genuine representation and authority, these elections may only serve to perpetuate the status quo.

The international community is urged to pay attention as Sharaa’s government navigates these turbulent waters. With millions still displaced, the future of Syrian democracy hangs in the balance, and the voices of its citizens continue to demand recognition.

Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.