DAMASCUS, Syria (AP) – On Sunday, July 12, 2026, Syria's newly elected parliament convened for its inaugural session following the ousting of former President Bashar Assad. This event marks a significant step in attempting to revive the legislative process within the country after years characterized by conflict and autocratic governance. The session symbolizes a hopeful endeavor to restore normalcy and governance in a nation deeply scarred by political turmoil.
The 210-member People’s Assembly saw two-thirds of its members elected through electoral colleges, while the remaining one-third were appointed directly by the interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa. This newly formed parliament is set to serve a 30-month term and is tasked with preparing the groundwork for upcoming elections, as the country strives to transition toward a more democratic political framework.
The convening of the parliament signals progress in the drafting of new laws, as Syria seeks to recover from decades of harsh rule under the Assad family. The enduring conflict in Syria has resulted in the tragic loss of approximately half a million lives and profound social and economic disarray. In his address to the parliamentarians, President al-Sharaa emphasized the importance of national consolidation, stating, “After liberating our homeland and regaining our freedom, we are all moving toward consolidating the state.”
After taking their oaths of office, the legislators elected Abdul Hamid al-Awak as the speaker of the assembly. Al-Awak, a resident of northeastern Hassakeh province, brings with him a background of judicial experience, having served as a judge within the Justice Ministry for a decade. Notably, he was among several Syrian officials who defected from the Assad government during the early days of the uprising, subsequently seeking refuge in Turkey.
This inaugural session of the People’s Assembly is not just a political formality; it is a crucial landmark in Syria's ongoing journey to establish a more representative government that embodies the will of its people. As the assembly sets out to draft legislation and prepare for future elections, the nation remains hopeful for a stable transition after years of strife.
The atmosphere surrounding the session was tense yet optimistic, reflective of the long and arduous path toward political recovery that lies ahead for Syria. The newly elected parliament faces the daunting challenge of unifying a country that has been fractured by conflict, but the potential for legislative change offers citizens a glimmer of hope for a better future.
