Syrians to vote on new constitution today

The reforms being made in Syria through new constitution are not enough but even then the process should be hailed as a whole. Today, people of Syria are to vote on a new constitution that is apparently meant to end five-decades rule of a single party in the country. The step is heartening for many in the country, especially for those who have been struggling against the rule of dictator Bashar al-Assad for the last eleven months. Hundreds and thousands of Syrians took to the streets in March last year after getting inspired by popular uprising in Tunisia and Egypt.

The monarchic rule in Tunisia and Egypt were ended by strong protest demonstrations of people of these countries. The dictators were overthrown and subsequently elections were held in both the countries to establish a democratic government as per wishes of the people. However, Syrians have proved to be unlucky, as Bashar al-Assad is still clinging to the power. According to human rights activists, around 7,600 innocent civilians have been killed so far in the country by security forces loyal to the regime.

The Sunday’s election is being dubbed as part of the political reforms announced by Bashar al-Assad a few months back responding to demands of the people. Cities have been decorated with flags and buntings while the state television is also broadcasting election campaigns round the clock. People are being encouraged to take part in the election and give their opinion. Observers have said that the process can be one of the attempts of the dictator to calm down the protesters.

In Sunday’s vote, more than 14 million people over the age of 18 are eligible to cast their vote at 13,835 polling stations set up across the country. Doubts, however, still persist that how people would cast their vote in violence-hit areas. Around 75 percent of the population of the country is Sunni Muslim, while 12 percent population of the country comes from Alawite Shiite tribe. Bashar al-Assad also hails from the Alawite tribe and it is considered one of the most influential tribes of the country.

If the new constitution is adopted after the referendum, the monopoly of single Baath Party of Assad would end. There will be a pluralistic system in the country to elect public representatives. The opposition has boycotted the election and asked people to stay away from the process.