Story perspectives

President Picks 70 Lawmakers; Assembly Chooses Speaker, Independence at Risk

7/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Ahmed al-Sharaa appointed 70 of the 210 lawmakers, a “presidential third” critics say undermines democratic transition.
The People’s Assembly met for its first session, elected Abdulhamid Al-Awak as speaker for a thirty-month term.
Analysts warn the parliament must stay independent from the president and cabinet to avoid Assad-era rubber-stamp practices.
Seats for Suweida province stay vacant, leaving the Druze region without parliamentary representation.

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Story summary

President Ahmed al-Sharaa appointed 70 of the 210 lawmakers, a “presidential third” critics say undermines democratic transition.
The People’s Assembly met for its first session, elected Abdulhamid Al-Awak as speaker for a thirty-month term.
Analysts warn the parliament must stay independent from the president and cabinet to avoid Assad-era rubber-stamp practices.
Seats for Suweida province stay vacant, leaving the Druze region without parliamentary representation.