Overview

• Local committees began designating 140 seats, with 70 to be appointed directly by interim President Ahmad al‑Chareh.
• Two Kurdish‑held northeast provinces and Druze‑majority Sweida were excluded, leaving 32 of 210 seats vacant.
• State media reported ballot counting in some areas, with a final list of names due Monday.
• Civil society groups, including a coalition of 14 NGOs, argue the process amounts to nominations that could secure a loyal majority.
• The interim authorities say direct national elections are not feasible now due to large numbers of Syrians abroad lacking valid documents.