Syrian rights groups criticize Decree No. 143 as undemocratic
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Several prominent Syrian human rights organizations condemned on Monday Decree No. 143, issued by Syrian Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa, which mandates the holding of parliamentary elections. They argue that the decree undermines fundamental democratic principles and fails to provide genuine political representation.
In a joint position paper, the Syria Justice and Accountability Center (SJAC), PEL-Civil Waves, Syrians for Truth and Justice (STJ), and other organizations emphasized that while the current fragile political and social situation, compounded by the displacement of millions of Syrians, makes direct general elections challenging, this does not justify implementing a temporary electoral system that undermines pluralism and democratic representation.
The decree mandates that two-thirds of the 210-member People’s Assembly be elected through “electoral bodies” appointed by the president, with the remaining third directly appointed by him.
Critics argue that this structure consolidates executive control over the legislature, effectively eroding the independence of the parliamentary body and violating the principle of separation of powers.
Additionally, the decree imposes vague and exclusionary conditions for candidacy, such as disqualifying individuals deemed “supporters of the former regime” or “members of terrorist organizations,” without offering clear definitions. This lack of clarity opens the door to arbitrary disqualification based on shifting political considerations.
The organizations also raised concerns about the absence of an independent electoral oversight body, as the High Electoral Committee is appointed by the president, which calls into question its impartiality and transparency.
In their recommendations, the organizations called for the elimination of presidential appointments to the parliament, the establishment of an independent electoral oversight body, and the implementation of clear, inclusive candidacy criteria to ensure fair and representative elections.