Syria’s Higher Committee for Elections announced the completion of the country’s first People’s Assembly since the fall of the Assad regime by releasing the names of the final third of members appointed by President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The Assembly is scheduled to hold its inaugural session on July 6, marking the beginning of a new legislative phase.
Legislative Priorities for the New Assembly
The final list includes 70 members, comprising 55 men and 15 women. Women account for 21.4% of the appointed third of the Assembly. According to the Higher Committee for Elections, the appointed members represent all of Syria’s governorates including a wide range of societal groups, national figures, professionals, dignitaries, women, people with disabilities resulting from war injuries and former detainees. The committee said the appointments also reflect diverse academic backgrounds and professional expertise, aiming to create broad representation within the Assembly.
The head of the Higher Committee for Elections, Dr. Muhammad Taha al-Ahmad, said the Assembly’s term will last 30 months, two and a half years, and may be renewed. He said its legislative priorities include updating existing laws, introducing legislation related to labor, wages and investment, and establishing a committee to draft a new constitution that reflects Syria’s current circumstances and the aspirations of its people.
Ahmad added that the appointments seek to balance those who made sacrifices for the country with individuals who possess national expertise and professional experience. He also emphasized the importance of increasing women’s representation, recognizing the role women played in the country’s recent developments and the fall of the Assad regime.
Public Reaction to the Announcement
Speaking to Levant 24, Muhammad Olabi welcomed the composition of the new Assembly. “In the new People’s Assembly formation, we notably observe the presence of Kurdish and Druze figures, alongside representatives from various segments of Syrian society, including artistic and cultural personalities,” he said.
“This reflects broader openness to Syria’s diversity. All Syrians, regardless of affiliation, have the full right to parliamentary representation.” Olabi said he hopes the Assembly will help advance justice and equality after years of hardship. “We place great hopes in this council, trusting it will do justice to a people who have long suffered oppression and mark a genuine start toward justice and equality,” he said.
Muhammad al-Halabi also expressed optimism following the announcement of the members. “We were greatly pleased to see many new members have endured what Syrians endured and are among the nation’s loyal sons,” he told Levant 24. “They reached this position through true merit and struggle.” Halabi said many people are confident the Assembly’s members will work to improve living standards, revise outdated laws and modernize legislation to address current needs and future challenges.
