Syria’s new parliament holds inaugural session as political transition advances

Sunday 12 July 2026 - 15:15

By: Sahili Aya

Syria’s new parliament holds inaugural session as political transition advances

Syria’s newly established People's Assembly convened for its first session in Damascus on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s political transition following the fall of former President Bashar al-Assad.

The inaugural meeting comes 19 months after rebel forces led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa overthrew the Assad government, as the country continues efforts to rebuild its political institutions under a temporary constitutional framework.

First parliamentary session of the post-Assad era

The opening session represents the first meeting of Syria's legislature since the end of the Assad family's decades-long rule.

Addressing lawmakers in Damascus, President Ahmed al-Sharaa called on members of the assembly to demonstrate responsibility and professionalism, describing the parliament as a platform dedicated to truth and justice.

He said Syria is entering a new phase of nation-building, stressing that both institutional reform and social reconstruction are central to the country's future.

Parliament begins work with limited authority

Although symbolically important, the new parliament currently operates with restricted powers under Syria’s temporary constitution.

Its responsibilities remain limited while broader constitutional and institutional reforms are developed as part of the country's ongoing political transition.

The composition of the chamber also reflects the transitional framework. Two-thirds of lawmakers were selected through regional electoral colleges, while four parliamentary seats remain vacant, including three reserved for representatives from Sweida.

Test of inclusive governance

The formation of the People's Assembly is widely viewed as an early test of President al-Sharaa’s commitment to creating a more inclusive political system after decades of authoritarian rule.

Under the Assad government, Syria's parliament was frequently criticised by opponents and international observers as lacking genuine legislative independence.

The new leadership has pledged to establish stronger representative institutions, although the long-term effectiveness of the transition will depend on future constitutional reforms, political participation and national reconciliation.