Tensions mark sit-in in central Damascus
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Dozens of people staged a sit-in on Friday in Yusuf al-Azma Square in central Damascus, calling for improved living conditions, public services, and political freedoms, while facing confrontations from counter-demonstrators shortly after the gathering began.
According to eyewitnesses, hundreds of individuals opposing the sit-in gathered at the site and attempted to disperse the protesters, leading to tensions and sporadic incidents of harassment and physical altercations.
Security forces later intervened, deploying personnel to separate the two groups and establishing a barrier to prevent further clashes, while ensuring the safety of those participating in the protest.
Participants in the sit-in raised banners reading, “Positions should be for the most qualified, not the closest,” expressing opposition to favoritism and calling for merit-based appointments in public offices.
Protesters also called for strengthening the rule of law and equality among citizens, halting property expropriation policies carried out under reconstruction frameworks, and reviewing pricing policies, particularly electricity tariffs. Additional demands included market regulation, enhanced transparency, and rejecting what they described as unplanned privatization of key sectors.
Organizers stressed the peaceful nature of the gathering, stating that their demands focus on economic and service-related issues, aimed at improving living conditions without political escalation.
In a statement, the protesters announced the launch of a media and organizational platform for a planned sit-in scheduled for April 17, 2026, coinciding with Evacuation Day. They said the move is based on rights guaranteed by the temporary constitutional declaration, particularly freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.