Syria's president names final 70 lawmakers to new post-Assad parliament

Syria's Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa has appointed the final 70 lawmakers to the country's new 210-seat parliament, enabling it to convene its first session next week. Among the appointees are fifteen women, a significant increase from the six selected by regional electoral colleges last October, addressing an earlier imbalance. Thirteen new members were imprisoned during the previous regime. The selections, described as combining "the voice of sacrifice and the voice of experience," aim to represent diverse segments of Syrian society and reinforce national unity. Appointees include relatives of martyrs, survivors of detention and attacks, academics, professionals, and community leaders from all 14 provinces.

Syria's first parliament since the ousting of Bashar al-Assad has begun legislative duties, marking a significant shift after decades of Assad family rule. The new 210-member legislature held its first meeting on Monday, where members were sworn in and the presidential council was elected. Interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa directly appointed 70 legislators, including 15 women, to the parliament. This development signifies the country's progress in drafting laws as it recovers from years of civil war and authoritarian rule. Parliamentary elections were held in phases, with some regions excluded due to security concerns or ongoing control by other forces.