Syria goes to poll on new constitution amid incessant violence

Syria went to poll on major constitutional changes on Sunday as reports of violence continued to come from various parts of the country, particularly Homs. The highlight of the new constitution is the introduction of multi- party election system in Syria which is a marked shift from political monopoly of Baath party. Interestingly, the Baath party led by Al-Assad family has been in power in Syria for almost four decades.

On the Election Day, over 13,000 polling booths were set up for 14.6 million voters across the country. The state-owned television broadcasted people casting their ballots in Damascus, Lebanon and other parts of Syria. President Bashar-Al-Assad was also seen casting his vote. People were urged to participate in Syria poll to show their support for Assad government fighting the so-called “insurrection”. However, there were also reports of people boycotting election in Al-Ma’adamiah, Southern Damascus, despite heavy security presence.

The opposition activists and skeptics see the proposed parliamentary changes as nothing but superficial and not sufficient to address the real issue. They want President Assad to step down from power. On the polling day, there has been dozens of death reported from all over Syria. A recent UN report has estimated the death toll to be around 5400. Results of Syria referendum is expected on Monday.