Future Syria Party: Upcoming elections won’t reflect people’s will

The Transitional Government in Syria is expected to hold People’s Council elections between September 15 and 20. The Council consists of 210 seats, 140 of which will be elected through local electoral bodies formed by decree of the Transitional Prime Minister, Ahmad Al-Sharrah, while the remaining 70 seats will be directly appointed by him, according to official statements by the Transitional Government.

Regarding the upcoming elections, the Future Syria Party expressed reservations, pointing out that the committee formed by the Prime Minister’s office, along with its provincial subcommittees, does not represent a true popular representation of the regions and political parties. As a result, these elections are considered neither legitimate nor official.

Kawthar Doku highlighted the weak representation in the so-called “National Conference,” describing it as not inclusive of all segments and components of Syrian society. She also noted that the “constitutional declaration” did not encompass all Syrian groups, sects, and political parties.

Doku stressed the need to respect Syria’s cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity. She stated: "The role of political parties in these elections is marginalized; therefore, these elections will not be genuine nor represent all Syrians. We believe that elections must be announced and official, reflecting all segments of Syrian society."

She added that previous elections under the former regime were also formalities that did not reflect the popular will, and the upcoming elections will be no exception, failing to serve as a real decision-making platform.

Kawthar Doku called on the Transitional Government to include all components of Syrian society, its sects, and political parties in the electoral process to ensure transparent and effective elections that truly reflect the diversity of a new Syria.

Although the number of seats in the People’s Council has increased from 150 to 210, and the representation of women in electoral bodies has been specified, the electoral process still lacks a permanent electoral law that clearly defines nomination, voting, and oversight mechanisms. Additionally, the allocation of seats based on a 2011 population census raises significant issues given the demographic changes caused by war, displacement, and migration.

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ANHA