Syria's newly formed parliament, the People's Assembly of Syria, held its first session on Sunday, marking the first time the legislature has convened since the historic political upheaval in 2024.
During the session, lawmakers elected a speaker, two deputy speakers, and a secretary.
The convening of the 210-seat parliament is widely viewed as a critical test of President Ahmed al-Sharaa of the Syrian transitional government's pledge to establish a new, inclusive political order.
Under the current transitional framework, two-thirds of the lawmakers were chosen by regional electoral colleges last year, while the remaining one-third were directly appointed by Sharaa on July 1.
During the inaugural session, the lawmakers were collectively sworn in before President Sharaa, subsequently voting to elect Abdul Hamid al-Awak, a former judge, as the speaker of the parliament.
Sharaa said that the parliament will form a specialized committee to draft a new constitution for the country.
Although the new parliament provides a formal framework for legislation and oversight, analysts and local media say that its true credibility hinges on whether it can exercise real independence and practical authority.
Syria's new parliament holds first session since 2024, electing speaker
Syria's new parliament holds first session since 2024, electing speaker
Syria's new parliament holds first session since 2024, electing speaker
