Syria's new parliament convened for the first time on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the country's political transition. The session took place 19 months after rebels led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa toppled Bashar al-Assad, aiming to restart the legislative process after years of conflict and autocratic rule.
The 210-member People’s Assembly consists of two-thirds of members elected through electoral colleges and one-third appointed directly by President al-Sharaa. The parliament will serve a 30-month term while preparing for future elections. Despite the chamber's current limited powers, its launch signals progress in drafting new laws as Syria recovers from decades of brutal rule under the Assad family and a civil war that killed approximately half a million people.
During the session, legislators elected Abdul Hamid al-Awak as speaker. Al-Awak is a former judge in the Justice Ministry from northeastern Hassakeh province who previously defected from the Assad government to Turkey. President al-Sharaa addressed the parliamentarians, stating that the nation is moving toward consolidating the state after liberating the homeland and regaining freedom. He further emphasized that improving the economy and strengthening public services are key priorities for the country.