The Syrian People’s Parliament held its first session in Damascus on July 12, 2026, marking a formal transition toward constitutional governance following the collapse of the Bashar al-Assad regime. During the opening, members took their constitutional oaths in the presence of President Ahmed al-Shara, and former judge Abdülhamid al-Avvak was elected as the new Speaker of the Parliament.
Transition to Constitutional Governance in Damascus
The inaugural session signifies a shift in Syria’s political landscape, moving from years of conflict toward a structured parliamentary framework. According to official reports, the session was attended by key figures including President Ahmed al-Shara, Foreign Minister Assad Hassan al-Shaibani, and Interior Minister Enes Hattab. The new deputies took their constitutional oaths, signaling a commitment to a new legislative era.
President al-Shara addressed the assembly, calling for the creation of a state built on responsibility and merit. He emphasized that the reconstruction of the economy and the establishment of a stable investment climate are collective responsibilities shared by the parliament and other state institutions. Foreign Minister al-Shaibani noted that this step marks Syria’s entry into a period of effective constitutional governance. Claudio Cordone, Deputy to the UN Special Envoy for Syria, described the session as a significant turning point in the country’s political transformation.
Did you know?
The parliamentary session was opened by the eldest member, Usame el-Assaf, following established constitutional procedures before the election of the permanent leadership.
Leadership Election and Parliamentary Restructuring
The election for the Speaker of the Parliament took place via secret ballot. Abdülhamid al-Avvak, a former judge with a doctorate in constitutional law, secured the position with 99 votes. His competitors, Müeyyed Hayel el-Kablavi and Muhammed Ramiz Kurec, received 75 and 31 votes, respectively, with one blank ballot cast.
In his acceptance speech, Speaker al-Avvak expressed an intention to move away from the image associated with the former regime’s parliament. He urged deputies to consolidate their efforts under the legislative roof and promised full cooperation with the executive branch to facilitate the nation’s rebuilding efforts. The parliament also elected its leadership team: Mustafa Musa was named 1st Deputy Speaker, Madonna Bishara as 2nd Deputy Speaker, and Müeyyed Habib as the new parliamentary secretary.
Future Legislative Outlook
The newly formed parliament is scheduled to reconvene for its next legislative session on July 26, 2026. The focus, as outlined by the leadership, remains on passing laws that support government efforts to provide services and initiate reconstruction projects across the country.
Pro Tip:
To track Syria’s legislative progress, follow the official announcements regarding the upcoming July 26 session, as these meetings will likely determine the primary policy focus for the remainder of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was elected as the new Speaker of the Syrian Parliament?
Abdülhamid al-Avvak, an expert in constitutional law and a former judge, was elected Speaker of the Parliament with 99 votes.
What is the primary focus of the new Syrian Parliament?
The parliament is tasked with rebuilding the nation, creating a stable investment environment, and enacting legislation to support governmental service delivery and economic recovery.
When will the next session of the parliament take place?
The next legislative session is scheduled for July 26, 2026.
What role did international observers play?
Claudio Cordone, representing the UN, acknowledged the session as a key turning point in Syria’s political transition toward constitutional order.
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