The Syrian Elections: Daily Updates

 

 

• Syria Vote Mandated Assad to Crush Terrorist Groups, Consecrated His Victory
• Speaker al-Laham: Dr. Bashar Hafez al-Assad wins sweeping majority of votes

 

NO TO IMPERIALISM! NO TO WAR ON SYRIA!

Syrians abroad protest decisions to block their voting in presidential elections

Western Media Admit Massive Turnout in Syrian Presidential Elections Abroad

Defense Minister: Syrian people’s support to leadership defeated enemies

Iran: Syria Vote Firm Response to Enemies

Holy Synod of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch calls on citizens to vote in Syria’s elections

Russia to send observers to Syria Presidential elections due on June 3

Syrian Inner Opposition Backs Presidential Election

Information Minister: Presidential elections herald end of the crisis

Anti-Syria camp taken aback by high voter turnout among Syrian expats

Mikdad: Syrians surprised world with their commitment to Homeland

Syrians in Czech voice support to homeland

Syrian citizens in Golan affirm support to presidential elections

Voting for president took place in 43 embassies, voter turnout over 95 per cent

Syrians from France, Belgium and US arrive at borders to vote

‘Syrian elections expose Western contempt for democracy’

Why are US-backed politicians in Lebanon angry when Syrians want to vote freely?

Russian observers arrive in Damascus to oversee Presidential elections

Khamenei: Tehran will back whatever the Syrians decide in presidential vote

International observers endorse Syrian elections

Syrians living in Kuwait arrive in Damascus Airport to cast their votes

Syrian government doing its utmost to ‘create environment of safety and security’ during elections

US activists observe Syrian election

Foreign delegations observe electoral process in various provinces

Syrians stream to polling centers at borders, with new polling centers opened

Borujerdi observing voting: Syria is past war and is living victory

International delegations stress Syria’s voting process was fair and democratic

World Media Acknowledge Massive Turnout in Syria’s Presidential Election

Supreme Constitutional Court: Number of participants in Presidential elections reached at 11.634.412 with 73.42% Jun 04, 2014

Damascus, SANA, Supreme Constitutional Court announced Wednesday that the percentage of citizens’ participation who have the right to vote in the presidential elections reached at 73.42%. Spokesperson of the Supreme Constitutional Court Majed Khadra said at a press conference reciting the Court’s statement: “according to the rules of Article No. 85 of the Syrian Arab Republic constitution for 2014, and articles No. 28, 29, 31 of the Supreme Constitutional Court and article No. 79 of the General Elections’ law, the results of the electoral process for the Syrian Arab Republic post as follow: The number of those who have the right to take part in the presidential elections inside and outside Syria reached at 15.845.575 citizens and the number of participants in the voting reached at 11.634.412 while the number of invalid papers reached at 442.108 with 3.8%. On the appeals in front of the Court, Khadra said anyone who didn’t win the elections or has objection on the electoral process has to submit his appeal to the Court during 3 days as of the date of announcing the results, then the court decide the result during 7 days following the three days and announce the name of the winner by Speaker of the people’s Assembly. He added the Court will refer a book today to Speaker of the People’s Assembly to notify him, and then he announces the name of winner.

 

Syrian Armed Forces is on full alert to secure the election sites.
June 3, 2014

Syrian Air Force is conducting sweeps in the skies of the major cities, fully armed, and on high altitudes.

Syrian Arab Army

 

Syrian Presidency thanks Syrians for civilized manifestations during presidential elections campaigns
Jun 02, 2014
Damascus, (SANA) – Presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic thanked on Monday the Syrian people for the civilized manifestations they have shown during the presidential elections campaigns and the elections which were held outside Syria.

On its Facebook page, the presidency hoped the Syrian citizens will continue their commitment to the constitution and laws, and they will continue expressing support to any presidential candidate by heading tomorrow, Tuesday June 3rd, to the ballot boxes in all Syrian territories to practice their constitutional right and cat vote to choose their presidential candidate freely, transparently and responsibly starting from 07:00 through 19:00 in the evening.

Syrians in Austria show support to Homeland
Jun 02, 2014
Vienna, (SANA) members of the Syrian community and students in Austria stressed Monday that the presidential elections held abroad reflected the Syrian expatriates loyalty, love and support to their homeland.

In a statement, they reiterated that the success of the election process abroad showed that the Syrians have practiced their right to choose their candidate with full transparency, democracy and freedom.

The statement stressed that the presidential elections scheduled on Monday June 3 expresses the Syrian people’s steadfastness and challenge of the international terrorism led by Washington and the global Zionism.

The Syrians pointed out that the presidential elections in Syria will draw the true image of the future of the modern and invulnerable Syria.

They also expressed support to the Syrian leadership and army as an example of resistance.

H. Zain/ Ghossoun

Al-Shaar: Higher Elections’ Committee stands at one distance from all candidates
Jun 02, 2014

Chief of the Higher Judicial Elections’ Committee, judge Hisham al-Shaar affirmed the committee enjoys full independence and neutrality, adding ” No one in the State or public sides has any authority on it or could interfere in its affairs.”

Al-Shaar, meeting the same delegations, said the Committee stands at one distance from all candidates for the Republic’s president post.

He added the Committee has ended all procedures for the day of elections on Tuesday to supervise the electoral process in cooperation with the Higher Constitutional Court.

For her part, WPC President Gomes said she came to Syria to inspect the reality of events here, considering presidential elections as historic and very important to Syria.

The DPRK lawmaker also affirmed that the elections will send a blow to the hostile camp of Syria and the terrorist groups.

Archbishop Capucci: Presidential elections golden chance for expressing loyalty to homeland
Jun 02, 2014
Rome, (SANA)- Archbishop of Jerusalem in Exile Hilarion Capucci stressed that Syria’s presidential elections are “a golden chance for expressing our love, commitment and duty towards our homeland.”

Archbishop Capucci said in a letter Monday that voting for a president for the Syrian Arab Republic constitutes an important point in the building of the state’s institutions and “a crucial stage for restoring the political, economic and security stability.”

He stressed that the success of the elections would send a message to the whole world on the determination of the Syrians to start a new phase of reconstruction in all spheres.

The Archbishop pointed out that the Syrian expatriates are always there for standing by Syria and supporting it, as they are working hard until it recovers from their homeland’s ordeal, renewing confidence that the Syrians are able to overcome the hard times they are going though.

Grand Mufti calls on world countries to support right of people to decide their destiny

Grand Mufti of the Republic Ahmad Badreddin Hassoun stressed that Syria, through its adherence to achieve the constitutional elections, calls on all countries around the world to support right of people to choose their leader and counter the international terrorism which has posed a real danger to the whole world.

Meeting the same delegation, Hassoun said that the visit of the Russian delegation at the current time has a huge value as it seeks to foil western media attempts to distort the reality of events in the whole region, particularly in Syria.

Hassoun pointed out that what has happened in Syria is a conflict to take control of the region which the west covered with religious dimension, adding that war imposed on Syria comes as a punishment for its stances on the just causes in the region, particularly the Palestinian one.

For their part, members of the Russian delegation said that Syria has achieved advanced steps in democracy, affirming the importance of dialogue among religions to enhance stability in the region and the world.

Committee: Campaigns of candidates for presidential elections to suspend on Monday at 7 a.m Jun 01, 2014

Damascus, SANA, Higher Judicial Elections’ Committee announced Sunday the campaigns of candidates for Presidential elections will suspend as of Monday morning. “In accordance with the rules of Article 58 of the elections’ law No. 5 for 2014, the campaigns for presidential elections suspend before 24 hours of the date of elections, set on Tuesday June 3rd, 2014; namely as of Monday June 2nd at 7:00 a.m.,” the committee said in a statement. Mazen Parliament speaker: Presidential vote testament to Syrians’ resolve to abort schemes Jun 01, 2014   Damascus, (SANA) Presidential vote in Syria is an internal issue for only the Syrian people to decide, said Speaker of the People’s Assembly, Mohammad Jihad al-Laham. Al-Laham was speaking during his meeting Sunday with the Brazilian chairwoman of the World Peace Council (WPC), who is visiting Syria at the invitation of the Assembly which extended invitations to Brazilian lawmakers to observe elections slated for June 3. The People’s Assembly stands equidistant from all presidential candidates as it represents the Syrian people and combines parties and powers across the political and social spectrum, including opposition ones, al-Laham said. He said that the Syrian state, in all its institutions, is exerting immense efforts to make a success of the upcoming vote. Al-Laham struck a confident tone during the meeting as he assured that Syria is now on a fast track to a decisive victory. Elections held on time will go to prove the Syrians’ resolve to abort conspiracies targeting them, he added. WPC chairwoman, for her part, said the Brazilian delegation is in Syria to observe the presidential vote and to bring the suffering of the Syrian people to the attention of Brazilian public opinion. She lambasted foreign interference in the Syrian crisis, describing it as unjustifiable against a sovereign state that honors international agreements. In the same context, a meeting brought together the parliament speaker and the DPRK parliamentary delegation headed by member of the Supreme People’s Assembly and the accompanying delegation, with al-Laham affirming that elections in Syria will crown a series of battlefield victories notched by the Syrian army. Syria and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea are on the same page as they, al-Laham said, are facing the same conspiracies hatched by the same enemies. He called on the delegation members to come visit the polling stations that would be open as of Tuesday 7:00 a.m. local time, urging them to have a close-up look into the suffering of the Syrian citizens dwelling in makeshift residential centers. The DPRK lawmaker, for his part, said elections are a legitimate right for the Syrian people and an ‘encouraging step’ for all progressive countries around the world. Elections held as scheduled will be a slap in the face of anti-Syria powers, he added, hailing Syria’s invitation to the DPRK Supreme People’s Assembly as a sign of trust that the DPRK deeply appreciates. Al-Shaar: Higher Elections’ Committee stands at one distance from all candidates In this regards, Chief of the Higher Judicial Elections’ Committee, judge Hisham al-Shaar affirmed the committee enjoys full independence and neutrality, adding ” No one in the State or public sides has any authority on it or could interfere  in its affairs.” Al-Shaar, meeting the same delegations, said the Committee stands at one distance from all candidates for the Republic’s president post. He added the Committee has ended all procedures for the day of elections on Tuesday to supervise the electoral process in cooperation with the Higher Constitutional Court. For her part, WPC Chairwoman said she came to Syria to inspect the reality of events here, considering presidential elections as  historic and very important to Syria. The DPRK lawmaker also affirmed that the elections will send a blow to the hostile camp of Syria and the terrorist groups. M. Ismael/ Mazen

National feelings among Syrians rise as constitutional vote approaches
May 31, 2014

Provinces, SANA, Families of al-Haffeh in Lattakia countryside staged Saturday a solidarity stand in support of national unity, constitutional vote and Army against terrorism.

Higher Elections Committee receives from Deputy Foreign and Expatriates Minister, Fayssal Mikdad, final results of presidential elections at Syrian embassies.
May 31, 2014

Al-Baath Party Regional Leadership: Presidential elections national duty
May 31, 2014
Damascus, (SANA) – Regional Leadership of al-Baath Arab Socialist Party stressed that the presidential elections in this historic stage are not merely a political right for citizens, but also they are a national duty par excellence and taking part in the elections is a declaration to the entire world that affirms the Syrian people’s independent decision and free democratic choice.

The Regional Leadership pointed in a statement under the title “Let us all Go to Elections Boxes for the Sake of Syria,” that this duty will show the world the volume of autocracy of the countries which are bragging about democracy and which violated the diplomatic norms and the simplest human rights when they prevented the Syrians from taking part in the elections process.

The statement highlighted that the active participation in this duty bolsters the practice of resistance and its culture as they are consistent with the nature of the Syrian people and defends the homeland and its independence.

The Regional Leadership stressed that presidential Candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad proved to the people his national loyalty and courage as he is still sharing the people their destiny and leads their struggle.

Elections’ Judicial Committee chief: No voting via Internet
May 31, 2014

Damascus, (SANA) Chief of the Higher Judicial Committee for Elections Hisham al-Shaar said there is no truth to news circulating on social media that the expats could possibly be using Internet to vote in presidential elections.

In a statement to SANA, Al-Shaar said that voters can vote by heading to one of the polling stations using his ID card, for the Syrians living inside the country, or his passport, for the Syrians abroad.

The Syrian expats who failed to cast their ballots in the vote can do so at border centers and Syrian airports where ballot boxes will be set up for this purpose, the Committee’s chief said.

Three candidates are running for the presidency in Syria as a presidential election was called for June 3. The Syrian expatriates did cast their ballots last Wednesday.

 

National marches and activities gather steam on election’s eve

May 30, 2014

Provinces, (SANA) Nationwide activities in support of presidential elections, which are few days away, continued, with the Syrians staging rallies and solidarity stands ahead of the big day.

The gathering of the people of Golan living in al-Zahira and al-Tadamun neighborhoods in Damascus organized an oratorical festival, exalting the sacrifices of martyrs and the Syrian army victories on the ground.

The participants in the festival voiced support to June 3 presidential vote.

The families of 40 martyrs were honored during the festival.

In Aleppo, Aleppo Province Council organized an event in cooperation with the National Union of Syrian Students, during which a ceremony for honoring martyrs’ families took place.

Meanwhile, the locals of al-Qanaqiah and al-Safsafah villages, located in Homs western countryside, took to the streets in big numbers to show support for the Syrian army and presidential vote.

Emotions running high nationwide as historic election is just around the corner May 29, 2014

Provinces, (SANA) Unshaken in their determination and with their spirits soaring higher as the presidential vote draws nearer, increasing numbers of Syrians flood the streets and squares to demonstrate undiminished support to elections they view as a milestone in Syria’s history. Residents of Mheen town and its neighboring villages in the eastern countryside of Homs took to the streets in a massive rally to express their support to the elections and pride of the victories achieved by the Syrian Arab Army over terrorism to which the country is exposed. The participants affirmed the Syrians’ ability to decide their future, rejecting any foreign intervention in Syria’s internal affairs. They said that the rally is a true expression of the Syrians’ support for their army and leadership. “We came to say to the whole world that the Syrians are the ones who decide their destiny and choose their president,” the participants said.   Meanwhile, members of Engineers Syndicate in Tartous staged a solidarity stand outside the building of Syndicate in support of the presidential elections and national stances. The  participants stressed adherence to chose the best future for Syria through election candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad “who will lead us to safety.” In the same context, thousands of citizens gathered outside the Municipality building in Lattakia to express support to presidential elections, national stances and the Syrian Arab Army in confronting terrorism. The participants voiced confidence that wide participation in elections is the best way to express loyalty to Martyrs’ sacrifices in restoring security and stability to the country. “Syria lives the dawn of victory and Syrians are able to rebuild what was destroyed by terrorists,” the participants said.  Women Union in Deir Ezzor organized a solidarity stand to express their determination to take part in the presidential elections, considering it a chance to enhance the role  of woman in building the future of the country. The participants said that the elections reflect  the real political and democratic pluralism Syria is witnessing. They pointed out that candidate al-Assad “is the one who is able to build Syria hand in hand with the Syrian people.” Citizens of Hadar Town in the northern countryside of Qunetira organized a massive rally in support of the elections. They raised national flags and placards expressing their full support and love for the homeland. The participants called on international and human rights organization to pressure the Zionist occupation forces to allow  the Syrian citizens of the occupied Golan practice their right to vote. In Hama, popular activities continued as citizens went ahead with organizing solidarity stands and events intended to pay tribute to the Syrian army and voice support to upcoming elections.

Voting extended for 2nd day at Syrian Embassy in Lebanon, turnout surprises public opinion May 29, 2014

Beirut, (SANA) With high turnout, the Syrian citizens continued Thursday to head to the Syrian Embassy in Lebanon for casting ballots for the second consecutive day to elect a president for their country. The first day of voting witnessed high turnout in Lebanon which constituted a surprise for all followers on the Lebanese area as no one would expect these huge numbers of voters. The wide turnout also reflects the Syrians’ commitment to their constitutional rights and sovereignty of their country. The Syrian Embassy in Lebanon extended receiving the Syrian voters for another day due to the high turnout to practice their constitutional right following High Judicial Committee’s decision late Wednesday to extend voting period at Syrian Embassy in Lebanonon for one more day may29th, starting from 07:00 till 24:00. Syria’s Ambassador in Beirut Ali Abdul Karim told SANA correspondent that the ballot process was decided to be resumed at the Embassy HQ in Beirut from 07:00 to 24:00 in order to enable all the Syrian citizens to practice their duty. Abdul-Karim pointed out that the heavy turnout of the Syrians voters for the second day is still continuous, ” which proves to everyone inside and outside the country that the Syrians believe in their homeland, president and army.” He said that the ballot boxes at the Embassy will close at 12, 00 Pm of Thursday. Syrian citizens headed early in the morning Thursday to the Syrian Embassy, raising the Syrian flag and photos of candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad.   English Bulletin Higher Elections’ Committee accepts migrants’ voting at Syrian airports May 29, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Higher Judicial Committee for Elections decided Thursday to accept voting of the migrants coming to Syria to practice their constitutional right for electing President of Syria at airports of the Syrian Arab Republic. Ministry of Justice said in a statement that voting of the Syrian expatriates would be through passports or identity cards. Mazen

Vote in presidential elections abroad signals steadfastness (Photo report) May 28, 2014

Capitals, (SANA) Bolstered by a notably high turnout, balloting in the long-awaited presidential elections started Wednesday at the Syrian embassies worldwide, marking a landmark constitutional event which the Syrian citizens regard as a defying sign of steadfastness and defiance against the terrorist war raging in their homeland and determination to national principles. Jordan         Iraq Oman Lebanon China Algeria Iran           Czech Republic    India     Czech Republic Belarus     Sweden Sudan   English Bulletin Syrians abroad elect their president amid high voter turnout, voting extended until midnight, and one more day in Lebanon May 28, 2014   Capitals, (SANA) With a remarkably high turnout, Syrian citizens abroad are casting ballots on Wednesday at the Syrian embassies in several capitals worldwide to choose one out of three candiates as a president for their country. Due to the high turnout, the Higher Judicial Committee for Elections extended voting time in all Syrian Embassies where elections are held by five hours May 28th. Since 7 am according to Moscow‘s local time, the Syrian citizens in Russia headed to their country’s Embassy for choosing a president who they deem competent and capable of fulfilling their national aspirations. Two rooms were prepared in the Embassy for citizens to elect secretly and in a democratic atmosphere. A number of the Syrians voted in blood to express their farthermost support to the Syrian state and army, adding that voting is the least to do in defense of the country. They highlighted that voting proves that the Syrian people, leadership and army are united in the face of aggressions and terrorism. The participants in China expressed pride that the Syrian citizens all over the world are participating in building the future of their country through practicing their right and duty of choosing a president to Syria. At 7 am according to the local time of Beijing, the Syrian Ambassador and Embassy personnel received the citizens coming from all over the Chinese cities. Syria’s Ambassador in China Imad Mustafa said the Syrians in China are enthusiastic over the elections as they are the first community to vote due to time zone differences. Mustafa said that holding the elections is a victory in and of itself, adding that who wins the elections is not important because what really matters is that the Syrian state is present and adherent to the new constitution and will never permit a constitutional vacuum. Syrian citizens who live in Japan flocked to the Syrian Embassy in Tokyo to elect their President, voicing determination to support their country and preserve its unity and strengthen.    A huge turnout of voters is witnessed in Lebanon’s capital of Beirut, where huge crowds of Syrian citizens have gone to the Syrian Embassy since early hours this morning to practice their right and duty in choosing a president for their country. Syria’s Ambassador in Beirut Ali Abdulkarim told journalists that the turnout is high, as the number of voters is expected to hit tens of thousands, adding that those who could not vote today have another opportunity on 3rd of June to vote in the border cross points centers. Abdulkarim said that the participation in the elections is a direct response to those who bet on disrupting the elections process, as it also indicates that the Syrian people believe in their country, its dignity and sovereignty. Later, Abdulkarim said that the Embassy will remain open for voting on Thursday as to allow as many citizens as possible to vote. Later, Ali Abdul-Kareem Ali said the Syrians’ turnout cast votes for to the presidential elections at the Embassy in Beirut is considered as a victory over the conspiracy and a failure to the US-Israeli project aiming at destroying Syria. “This huge gathering is an expression that the Syrians are proud of their Army and its achievements as well as it is a reflection on the Syrian people’s support to their wise leadership,” Abdul-Kareem told Al-Manar TV in an interview. The Higher Judicial Committee for Elections decided to extend the elections period in at the Syrian Embassy in Beirut till tomorrow Thursday May 29th,  from 07:00 to 24:00 due to huge turnout. Syrian citizens in Iran headed to the polling rooms set at the Syrian Embassy HQ in Tehran. Syria’s Ambassador to Iran Adnan Mahmoud said that holding elections at the Syrian Embassy in Tehran and our embassies around the world is “a translation of the Syrian people’s will through the ballot boxes”, as it also represents their national choices for the upcoming stage, on top of which being restoring stability to the country and adhering to sovereignty and national unity. Tens of thousands of Syrians in Jordan flooded the embassy in Amman to vote in the presidential elections and assert their right in choosing a leader for their country and rejection of foreign interferences. Tens of thousands of voters stressed their keenness on participating in the event as to express their support to the Syrian state and its freedom, dignity and sovereignty. The voters chanted slogans in support of candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad and the Syrian Army. New elections rooms were allotted to assimilate the numbers of voters. The Media Office at the Embassy in Algeria said the high turnout of voters is “natural” and indicates harmony between the visions of the Syrian citizens and the state for putting an end to the crisis based on the people expressing their free will in electing their president and determining their country’s future. The voting process in the Czech Republic enjoyed wide media coverage, with reporters from various Czech outlets describing the event as the most influential not only in Syria but in the Middle East region and the world. The Syrian Embassy in Poland witnessed a wide turnout by the Syrians, who organized a massive rally in front of the embassy to express support to the presidential elections and the Syrian Arab Army. The voters, carrying Syrian flags, stressed that voting embodies the victory of Syria over its enemies. Charge d’affaires of the Embassy Idrees Mayya said that 70% of the Syrians who registered in the embassy to vote have already come by 1 pm on a work day, expecting the rate of participation to hit 100% of the registered Syrians. Syrian citizens in Spain went to practice their constitutional right in choosing their president , affirming commitment to make this democratic process a success, and to build modern Syria, hailing the role of the Syrian Arab Army in confronting the conspiracy to which the country is exposed.   Balloting in Iraq seems to witness an increasingly high turnout, with the Syrian Ambassador Sattam Jadaan al-Dandah stressing that electors have been coming from the various Iraqi cities to the embassy’s HQ in Baghdad to elect a candidate. The Syrian voters in Iraq managed to travel long distances, coming from far Iraqi cities and braving adverse weather and security conditions-as many Iraqi cities are flashpoints of unrest- to cast their ballots and have their say in the elections. The Syrian citizens living in Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) went to participate in the presidential elections at the Syrian Embassy in Pyongyang. The DPRK Foreign Ministry expressed solidarity with the Syrian Embassy, wishing the presidential elections process be success, as it also stressed its constant support to Syria in the international forums. In Romania, Syrians began heading to the Embassy in Bucharest since 7 AM, coming from various cities and areas to cast their votes, with the participants saying that they are voting to keep Syria united and saying that the general atmosphere of elections at the embassy is excellent and that the turnout is good. Syrian Ambassador to  Romania Walid Othman said the Syrians went to the Embassy since the morning to cast their votes  for president of the country, adding that sons of the Syrian community in Romania came to express their belonging to Homeland. The Syrian Embassy in the Yemeni capital of Sana’a witnessed a huge turnout of the Syrians coming from all Yemen’s cities in commitment to their constitutional right and in defense of their country’s sovereignty and freedom. Syria community members in Cyprus flocked from all cities to the Syria Embassy in Nicosia to take part in practicing their constitutional right in electing their president, stressing the importance of their role in supporting Syria’s national stances. They pointed out that elections are a national achievement of the Syrian citizens, adding that elections present the will of the Syrian citizens in choosing their president. The Syrian Embassy in Indonesia witnessed a huge turnout of voters, who came to participate in the presidential elections. Head of the Syrian expatriates union in Europe, Dr. Ghanem Youssef said the electoral process for choosing a president for Syria is going smoothly in the capitals were the balloting is underway. In press statements to SANA, Youssef said that a follow-up committee was set up in Geneva city for establishing communications with the Syrian expats across Europe and helping them exercise their right to choose a president. Despite the attempts of some European countries to prevent the Syrians from exercising their constitutional right, Youssef said, the Syrians remain adamant in opposing these unfair decisions, turning the Syrian embassies in many capitals into jubilant centers where the Syrians expressed their full support to homeland. Syrians in South Africa participate in presidential elections Syrian citizens resident in South Africa headed to the Syrian Embassy in the capital city of Pretoria to cast their vote in the presidential elections. The Syrians expressed commitment to this national process and their right to shape the future of the homeland. Syrian residents in Senegal participate in presidential elections Syrian citizens resident in Senegal headed to the Syrian embassy to cast their vote and take part in the presidential elections in the homeland. The Syrian citizens expressed faith to the one who can defend Syria and its national decision and sovereignty. Meanwhile, the Syrian embassies in Cuba, Venezuela, Austria, Brazil, Japan, Mauritania, Pakistan , Malaysia, Sudan, Oman, Czech, Belarus, India, Serbia, Sweden, Ukraine, Nigeria, Argentina  and Scandinavia countries witnessed high turnout of Syrians who flocked in big numbers to vote in their president, amid an atmosphere of palpable jubilation and exuberance. English Bulletin 15,845,575 eligible electors to vote at 9601 stations, says Interior Ministry May 28, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Interior Ministry estimated the number of eligible voters who have had their names registered in the electors’ lists at 15,845,575, including those at home and abroad. In a statement issued late Tuesday, the Ministry noted that 9601 polling stations have been equipped and prepared for casting votes, with 11776 ballot boxes, spread across the provinces. The Syrians at home can vote at any polling center using their IDs, the statement noted, while the Syrians outside the country can cast their ballots at the Syrian embassies in whose electors’ lists they registered their names. Voting inside the country is slated for June 3 from 7 am to 7 pm, and in case of a high turnout, balloting would be extended for five more hours by a decision from the Higher Judicial Committee for Elections, according to the statement. The Ministry concluded its statement by calling upon the Syrian citizens to practice their constitutional right and assume their national responsibility in electing a president for their country. This participation, it said, would be “an expression of steadfastness in the face of those seeking to tamper with the homeland’s stability and security.” Interior Minister: All preparations for elections completed  Earlier, Interior Minister Lt. Gen. Mohammad al-Sha’ar met provinces’ Police Commanders and heads of departments at the Ministry, affirming that all the Ministry’s preparations for the upcoming elections have been completed. During the meeting, al-Sha’ar stressed the need to ensure the security of the upcoming elections and the safe and easy access of voters to voting centers, instructing the Police Commanders to set up operations rooms working 24/7 to supervise security operations for voting centers and addressing complaints. He said that the upcoming elections symbolize the Syrians’ ability to stand fast in the face of conspiracies and achieve victory, and that it emphasizes Syria’s sovereignty and independent decision-making. H. Sabbagh/H. Said

Syrians determined to national unity ahead of Presidential elections May 27, 2014

Provinces, SANA, With only a week left before the presidential elections are held in Syria, the Syrian people continue to take to the streets and organize activities to express support for this momentous event. The Trade Union in Hama organized a festival to voice support for the elections and the Syrian Arab Army which is fighting terrorism, affirming their adherence to building the democratic state and strengthening the concepts of citizenship and rule of law. Participants voiced support for presidential candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad and his political, economic and social projects, saying that he has a clear vision of Syria’s future. The areas of al-Mukharam, al-Na’em, Dibeen, al-Joubanyeh, al-Houz, al-Qarnyeh, al-Samaqyat, al-Aqrabyeh, Hiet, Sheen and Homs Workers and Journalists Union in Homs witnessed national events in support of the Syrian Arab Army and holding the presidential elections on time. The participants stressed their adherence to national unity and appreciation of the sacrifices made by the army. They also voiced support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad for his ability to face pressures and confront challenges. Many events were held in Aleppo Province in which the participants stressed their support to the presidential elections and rejection of terrorism and the countries backing it. They said the people of Aleppo will participate heavily in the upcoming elections as the elections represent the Syrians’ willingness to preserve the sovereignty of their homeland. They hailed the efforts made by the Syrian Army in the face of the armed terrorist groups across the country. People of al-Marqab area and the Lawyers Union in Tartous Province carried out two stands in support of the presidential elections and the Syrian Arab Army. The participants stressed their support to candidate al-Assad, expressing appreciation and gratitude for the sacrifices made by the Syrian Army in defending the homeland and preserving its unity and sovereignty. Meanwhile, 250 youths of the National Union for Syria Students in Tartous formed a great picture on the corniche of the coastal city to express their support to candidate  Dr. Bashar al-Assad. The participants stressed that the country is going to achieve victory over terrorism thanks to its citizens, Army and leadership. They hailed the role of the Army in confronting  terrorism to which the country is exposed. The area of al-Qardaha in Lattakia witnessed a national event in which the participants expressed support to candidate al-Assad and the Syrian army in its operations against terrorism across the country. The participants said the Syrians are united in facing plots and challenges, adding that the elections embody the will of the Syrians. They stressed that the Syrians have foiled all plots and conspiracies targeting Syria, adding that Syria, with its army and leadership, will remain firm in the face of all enemies. The Revolutionary Youth Union in Idleb carried out a stand in the city in support of the elections and the Syrian Army. The participants stressed that the Syrians have proved their ability to confront and overcome all challenges. In Deir Ezzor, a rally in support of elections was organized at Euphrates University, with participants expressing their support for the Army and candidate al-Assad, making an oath of fealty to Syria and its people. On a relevant note, the Damascus branch of the National Union of Iraqi Students organized an oratorical festival at Damascus University on occasion of the upcoming elections and in support of Syria against the conspiracy targeting it. Participants said the Iraqi people stand alongside their Syrian brethren in the battle against terrorism, asserting that Syria will remain a beacon of knowledge, heroism, courage, and sacrifice. Hama Deir Ezzor Damascus University Syrians abroad get ready to cast their votes for Syria President on Wednesday May 27, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Syrians abroad are getting ready to go Wednesday to the ballot boxes at the Syrian embassies in the countries they live in to practice their constitutional right to vote for President of the Syrian Arab Republic. Syrian embassies all over the world have witnessed great turnout during the latest days to register the names of Syrian cities who want to elect the president among three candidates, namely Maher Hajjar, Hassan al-Nouri and Dr. Bashar al-Assad. A number of countries like France, Germany, Belgium, and Gulf Sheikhdoms prevented the Syrians from casting their votes there, but that didn’t prevent the Syrians from expressing their support to this constitutional vote and condemning those unfair decisions. In this context, Central Commission for the Presidential Elections at the Foreign and Expatriates Ministry called upon Syrians abroad who have registered their names on the electoral lists in the Syrian embassies to come to the chanceries on Wednesday, May 28th, 2014 to cast their votes for the President’s post. The vote will be through passports for the Syrians living abroad while it will be through the identity card inside Syria. On June 3rd, Syria will witness a historic round of presidential elections in which three presidential candidates are competing to become president of the Syrian Arab Republic. The ballot boxes will receive voters on June 3rd as of 7:00 in the morning till 7: 00 in the evening. Mazen Eyon Ambassador Abdul-Kareem: Syrian Embassy took procedures to receive voters Wednesday May 27, 2014   Beirut, SANA, Syrian Ambassador in Beirut Ali Abdul-kareem affirmed Tuesday the embassy has taken all necessary procedures to receive the Syrians who live in Lebanon to cast their votes for the Syria President post on Wednesday May 28th as of 7:00 in the morning until 7:00 in the evening. “The embassy has witnessed a great turnout during the latest days by the Syria citizens to register their names to participate in the constitutional vote,”  Ambassador Abdul-kareem told SANA correspondent in Beirut.   Ambassador Abdul Karim: Participation in elections victory against conspiracy Earlier, Former Lebanese President Emile Lahoud reviewed with Syrian Ambassador in Lebanon Ali Abdul karim the latest developments in Syria, Lebanon and the region. Ambassador Abdul Karim said after the meeting “We reviewed what is going on in the region and the success achieved by the Syrian Arab Army in the universal war waged against it.” Abdul Karim called upon all the Syrian in Lebanon to participate in the presidential elections, pointing out to the huge turnout of citizens righting down their names in the Embassy during the past few days as a step for voting. He considered that the Syrians’ participation in the elections is a victory against the conspiracy, referring to the collapse of bets of conspirators against Syria. English Bulletin Syrian Embassies in Cyprus, Senegal finish preparations for presidential elections May 27, 2014   Nicosia, SANA, The Syrian Embassy in Nicosia finished all preparations for the presidential elections, as voting abroad will commence in Wednesday. Members of the Syrian community in Cyprus who flocked to the embassy in Nicosia to register for voting voiced commitment to their right to vote in the elections and ensuring their success. Meanwhile, Syrian Embassy in Dakar finished preparations to receive Syrian citizens who live in Senegal to practice their right of voting  and choose their upcoming President. Syrian Embassies are  going to receive the citizens who live abroad according to the scheduled time on Wednesday from 7,00 Am until 7,00 Pm. B. Mousa/ Mazen/ H. Sabbagh Interior Minister: All preparations for elections completed May 27, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Interior Minister Lt. Gen. Mohammad al-Sha’ar on Tuesday met provinces’ Police Commanders and heads of departments at the Ministry, affirming that all the Ministry’s preparations for the upcoming elections have been completed. During the meeting, al-Sha’ar stressed the need to ensure the security of the upcoming elections and the safe and easy access of voters to voting centers, instructing the Police Commanders to set up operations rooms working 24/7 to supervise security operations for voting centers and addressing complaints. He said that the upcoming elections symbolize the Syrians’ ability to stand fast in the face of conspiracies and achieve victory, and that it emphasizes Syria’s sovereignty and independent decision-making. On June 3rd, Syria will witness a historic round of presidential elections in which three presidential candidates are competing to become president of the Syrian Arab Republic. H. Sabbagh Cabinet approves bill on establishing Syrian Electronic School May 27, 2014   Damascus, (SANA) – Prime Minster, Dr. Wael al-Halqi, reiterated on Tuesday that all requirements for the presidential elections of the Syrian Arab Republic have been met inside and outside Syria. Chairing the cabinet’s weekly session, the prime minister clarified that these elections will be held in a transparent and democratic way as the Syrian people is determined to achieve the democratic and institutional victory. The prime minister called on the Syrian communities in the foreign countries to participate in the elections tomorrow at the Syrian embassies. Dr. al-Halqi reviewed the activities of the cabinet during the past week, pointing out to the importance of the Russian governmental economic delegation’s visit to Damascus in light of the continued coordination and political ad historical relations in all fields between the two countries. He added that based on the directives of President Bashar al-Assad, a meeting was held to activate the role and performance of the Higher Relief Committee through providing shelter and living requirements to the affected people. The cabinet’s session discussed several services, economic, developmental and administrative issues. After that the cabinet approved a bill on establishing a general commission dubbed “The Syrian Electronic School” based in Damascus and enjoys administrative and financial independence and affiliated to the Education Ministry. The commission is aimed at offering school education in an integrated way according to the international standards to enable hundreds of thousands of Syrian students to receive official education acknowledged by the Ministry of Education. For his part, Minister of Health, Saad al-Nayef, reviewed the ministry’s participation in the 67th session of the World Health Organization which was held in Geneva last week and the meeting of the health ministers of the Non-Alignment Movement, pointing out to the importance of Syria’s participation in these meetings to enhance its presence at the international forums.  F.Allafi

Syrians’ support for elections grows more ardent as the countdown to presidential vote starts May 26, 2014

Provinces, (SANA) With the countdown to the presidential elections having started, the Syrians show increasing ardor holding boisterous rallies and activities around the country in continued manifestations of their support for the landmark vote. Crowds of the residents of Yabroud city and the neighboring villages in Damascus Countryside gathered in a massive march in the municipality square in the city to express jubilation over holding the presidential elections on time in defiance of all foreign sides’ attempts to disrupt the vote. The participants expressed their support to the Syrian Arab Army in its operations against the terrorists, voicing support to candidate al-Assad as their choice in the upcoming elections. They said that voting is the duty and right for every Syrian citizen who loves his country and is keen on its security and sovereignty. The Women and Farmers unions organized two events in Idleb in support of the army in the face of terrorists and in support of holding the presidential elections on time. They stressed their support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad for his steadfastness and wisdom in the face of the global terrorist attack waged on Syria. Homs Province witnessed a number of events in the areas of Safar, Homs Electricity Company and the Engineers Syndicate. The events stressed support to holding the presidential elections on time, voicing support to the Syrian army in its battle against terrorism. They said that voting is the right and duty of all Syrian citizens, adding that the elections crown the victories of the Syrian army and are crucial in foiling the schemes aimed at undermining Syria.   Meanwhile, a popular festival was held in Kafram town in the northwestern countryside of Homs to support the presidential elections. Residents of Kfram town raised Syrian flags and poster of candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad, affirming their full support to the Syrian Arab Army in confronting terrorism to which the country is exposed. The participants chanted slogans that glorify martyrdom and national unity. They considered the upcoming elections as a turning point in building the modern Syria that will enhance its victory against conspiracy. Lattakia province witnessed a number of national events in the Agriculture Directorate, Dar al-Assad, Tishreen University, Journalists union and in Jableh area in support of holding the presidential elections on time and of the operations made by the Syrian Army against terrorism. The participants stressed their support to candidate al-Assad and rejection of all forms of foreign interference in the Syrian internal affairs. They called upon all the Syrians to participate in the ballots as to show the true image of the country and its cultural heritage. People of Masahra and Sasa’ in Quneitra organized a rally in which they expressed their support to the Syrian army and to the upcoming presidential elections, voicing support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad. Waving Syrian flags and carrying posters for al-Assad, the participants said that the people of Quneitra will always be backers of the Syrian army against the Israeli enemy and its agents. In Hama, the Revolutionary Youths Union made a festivity in the city, with the participants stressing their support to holding the presidential elections on time, voicing support to candidate al-Assad. They highlighted their appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements made by the Syrian Arab Army against the terrorists across the country. In Deir Ezzor, Assistant Regional Secretary of al-Baath Party Hilal al-Hilal said, during a popular gathering, that the upcoming presidential elections is considered as a huge victory added to the victories achieved by the Syria Arab Army in its war against terrorism. The massive meeting was attended by economic, social, popular and religious figures in Deir Ezzor city. “The upcoming elections represent the concept of enhancing democracy in Syria,” al-Hilal said. He called on all the Syrians to actively take part in elections, describing it as a national duty for every Syrian citizens. The participants stressed their full support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad. In another context, al-Hilal inspected the Army’s wounded personnels at the military hospital in Deir Ezzor, appreciating sacrifices of the Army in defending the country against terrorism. Syrians abroad voice support to presidential elections May 26, 2014

Capitals, (SANA) Syrian students and members of the Syrian community in Australia gathered in Sydney in response to the call of the National Union of the Syrian Students, Australia Branch, where they demanded their natural democratic right of participating in the presidential elections. The participants carried a big banner under the title of “Sawa” (Together) in Town Hall Square in the Australian city, expressing their right of participating in the upcoming elections and showing support to the candidate they deem the most competent for ruling the country. They also chanted slogans in support of the Syrian Arab Army in his battle against terrorism, showing adherence to the national principles. Syrian students and members of the Syrian community in Slovakia gathered in front of the Cultural Gallery in the country’s capital, Bratislava, in support of the presidential elections. The participants lauded the development of Syria under the leadership of President Bashar al-Assad in all domains, and more recently, in confronting terrorists, stressing that Syria has become a difficult number in the regional and international equations. They also condemned the stance of France, Germany and Belgium in preventing the Syrians living on their soil from practicing their constitutional right of voting inside the Syrian Embassy, which is governed by the Syrian laws and legislations, calling upon these states to revise their decisions and respect the will of the Syrian people. The Syrian community in Czech Republic said that the 28th of May will show the entire world that the Syrians are adherent to their country’s democratic and sovereign stances. In a statement, they said that voting is a modest contribution to the achievements made by the Syrian Arab Army and a gesture of loyalty to the homeland, expressing rejection of the decisions made by French, German and Belgian government to prevent the Syrians in these countries from voting. They said that the aforementioned countries are involved in derailing the political solution and supporting terrorism after their plots against Syria, sponsored by the US, Turkey and the Gulf states, went awry. Meanwhile, Preparations for upcoming presidential vote have been wrapped up at the Syrian Embassy in Romania‘s capital, Bucharest, with the embassy now fully prepared for the election slated for May 28. The embassy said in a statement Sunday that it contacted the Romanian authorities with regard to having all facilitations pertaining to the electoral process prepared for it to go smoothly, including the ballot center and voting booths, as well as organizing the reception of citizens coming from far-off cities who are willing to vote. The statement thanked all members of the Syrian community in Romania and Moldova for their high turnout to have their names registered on electoral lists, which bespeaks a high sense of responsibility and national commitment. Meanwhile, the letter urged the Syrian citizens who had their names resisted to exercise their right and cast their ballots at the Syrian embassy in Bucharest on May 28. Syrian community in France stresses support to presidential elections For the third consecutive week, the Syrian Nationals Union in France and members of the Syrian community organized a stand in the capital city, Paris, to express rejection of the French government’s decision to prevent the Syrians in France from practicing their constitutional right of electing a president for Syria. The participants erected an elections tent and held photos of the three presidential candidates and conducted symbolic elections. They denounced the unjust French decision to prevent the Syrians from casting their votes in France. The participants also set up a large screen displaying footages of the crimes committed by the armed terrorist groups which came to Syria from more than 80 countries against the Syrian citizens, history and future. English Bulletin

Syrians erupting in enthusiasm as election date approaches May 25, 2014

Provinces, (SANA) With resolve unshaken and undaunted by an escalating wave of terrorist attacks intended to rob them of their joy, the Syrians continue to take to the streets and squares and organize activities in daily outpourings of enthusiasm ahead of presidential vote set for June 3. Participants in a solidarity stand organized in Tartous affirmed their commitment to fully exercise their right in choosing their president against all odds. The stand saw a martyr-honoring ceremony where a number of martyrs’ family members were honored in commemoration of their everlasting memories. A number of martyrs’ relatives expressed optimism in an imminent victory over terrorism whose path the blood of their loved ones has charted. Elsewhere in Tartous, similar activities were organized in the Industrial City, al-Mitras town in Safita city, and in Banias. Meanwhile, the Kurdish National Movement for peaceful change  distributed brochures to  citizens at the Omayyad square in Damascus, showing the importance of taking part in the presidential elections. The brochures, which raise the motto of “together towards new Syria”, urge the Syrian citizens to cast their votes in the ballot boxes. Secretary General of the Movement Ali Omari said in a statement to SANA the Movement organized this initiative due to the importance of the upcoming constitutional process to send a blow to anyone who tries to interfere in Syria’s domestic affairs.   A ‘Homeland’s Tent’ was set up in Quneitra, where the participants stressed that Syria is coasting to a decisive victory over terrorism. They said the Syrians are determined to quash terrorism in their country down to the last terrorist, affirming that broad participation in elections will crown the army’s successes on the battlefield. Meanwhile in Sweida, a festival was organized at the Teachers’ Syndicate in support of elections and the Syrian army’s operations against terrorists. The participants, who waved national flags and chanted national slogans, said they will head to the ballot boxes on June 3rd to prove that Syria is, and will always remain, indomitable and unbowed. Another rally was held in the village of al-Soura al-Saghira to express support for the elections, expressing fealty to the homeland and solidarity with the army defedning Syria from terrorism. In Homs countryside, thousands of citizens of al-Dabbousiyeh and neighboring villages took to the streets in support of the presidential election process. The participants raised the Syrian flags and pictures of candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad and chanted slogans that express their full support to the Army in its war against terrorism. The participants pointed that taking part in the upcoming presidential elections means would be  contributing to the building of the future of modern Syria. In the same context, citizens of al-Qabo and neighboring villages in the northern countryside of Homs gathered to express their absolute support to the presidential elections and Army. A Syrian flag with a 10-meter high flagpole was raised atop the Syrian Arab Socialist Party building in the town, with the participants declaring support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad as he is the safety valve for Syria’s security and stability. Also in Homs, a popular festival and cultural activities were held at Mohammad Jamal al-Durra Center in al-Insha’at neighborhood. The participants expressed support to the Syrian army and the presidential elections slated for June 3. Artistic shows and sports shows were featured by sons of displaced families who were forced out of their homes by terrorist acts. The people of al-Naisiye town and neighboring villages in Talkalakh area also rallied in the town square to express support for elections and candidate al-Assad, saying he will guarantee victory over terrorism. Miscellaneous activities were organized in al-Slalibeh neighborhood, Jableh and Kalmakho towns in Lattakia, with crowds of citizens exalting national unity and voicing resolve to take part in the forthcoming elections. The participants said the upcoming elections are an embodiment of the Syrians’ will to preserve their independent decision and safeguard national principles. Religious figures affirmed in speeches delivered during the festival that Syria will remain true to its reputation as the land of coexistence among all faiths and sects no matter how hard extremists try to drag it into a quagmire of religious strife. In Hasaka province, a rally was organized by patriotic parties at the Arab Cultural Center in Qamishli city to voice support for the elections. Representatives of the Democratic Arab Solidarity Party, the Syrian National Youths Party, the People’s Party, and the Youth Party for Justice and Development voiced support for candidate al-Assad as the candidate who can guarantee Syria’s unity, security, and safety. Quneitra Sweida Tartous Safita Lattakia English Bulletin Syrians in Slovakia, Romania voice support to presidential elections May 25, 2014   Bratislava, (SANA) Syrian students and members of the Syrian community in Slovakia gathered in front of the Cultural Gallery in the country’s capital, Bratislava, in support of the presidential elections. The participants lauded the development of Syria under the leadership of President Bashar al-Assad in all domains, and more recently, in confronting terrorists, stressing that Syria has become a difficult number in the regional and international equations. They also condemned the stance of France, Germany and Belgium in preventing the Syrians living on their soil from practicing their constitutional right of voting inside the Syrian Embassy, which is governed by the Syrian laws and legislations, calling upon these states to revise their decisions and respect the will of the Syrian people. Syrian embassy in Bucharest wraps up preparations for presidential vote Meanwhile, Preparations for upcoming presidential vote have been wrapped up at the Syrian Embassy in Romania’s capital, Bucharest, with the embassy now fully prepared for the election slated for May 28. The embassy said in a statement Sunday that it contacted the Romanian authorities with regard to having all facilitations pertaining to the electoral process prepared for it to go smoothly, including the ballot center and voting booths, as well as organizing the reception of citizens coming from far-off cities who are willing to vote. The statement thanked all members of the Syrian community in Romania and Moldova for their high turnout to have their names registered on electoral lists, which bespeaks a high sense of responsibility and national commitment. Meanwhile, the letter urged the Syrian citizens who had their names resisted to exercise their right and cast their ballots at the Syrian embassy in Bucharest on May 28. R. Milhem / Ghossoun / M.Ismael Judge Shaar: Judicial elections’ Committee independent, no side has right to interfere in May 26, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Chief of the Higher Judicial Committee for Elections Hisham al-Shaar said Monday the committee is independent in its work and no one has right to interfere in its affairs and authorities. On June 3rd, Syria will witness a historic round of presidential elections in which three presidential candidates are competing to become president of the Syrian Arab Republic. “The relevant ministries and public bodies are obliged to execute resolutions issued by the Committee which practices its independent judicial mission and stands at one distance from all candidates,” al-Shaar said in a statement to SANA. On the parliamentary delegations invited to observe the presidential elections in Syria, al-Shaar said those delegations come to Syria upon an invitation by Speaker of the People’s Assembly in cooperation with Foreign Ministry. “Those delegations have full right to visit any ballot center, but they have no relation to the work of the judicial committee or to interfere in its affairs,” Chief of the Committee said. He added the electoral card will be ready during two days to be distributed to the ballot centers. Al-Shaar considered a decision by some countries to prevent Syrians abroad from casting their votes is regrettable as these countries pretend democracy. On election in some unsafe areas, Judge al-Shaar said the target is that any citizen has right to perform his constitutional vote, affirming “Syria is one ballot department”. He added the vote will be only through the identity card, affirming ballot boxes will receive voters on June 3rd as of 7:00 in the morning till 7: 00 in the evening. Mazen Eyon Female preachers: Participation in presidential vote religious duty May 25, 2014   Damascus, (SANA) A forum of Islamic religious education female preachers from Damascus and countryside started Sunday at the Grand Umayyad Mosque in Damascus. Nidaa Haram Aghasi, a preacher, said the gathering is a sign of commitment as vote-casting in the upcoming election is a religious duty during a historic juncture. Aghasi called for choosing the most capable of steering the country through uphill difficulties as Syria “has long been the rock upon which challenges and conspiracies are dashed.” Echoing the same view, preacher Sawnan Fallaha called for choosing the one “who can articulate the aspirations of the nation and carry the pulse of the homeland.” “Heading to the ballot boxes on the election day is fighting the enemy with the weapon of democracy,” says preacher Khaija al-Hamwi, adding that the Syrians are holding their breath as they move closer to the long-awaited day. M. Ismael  MFA Central Committee for Presidential Elections urges Syrians abroad to cast their ballots Wednesday May 25, 2014   Damascus, (SANA) The Central Committee for Presidential Elections at the Foreign and Expatriates Ministry urged the Syria expats who had their names registered on electoral lists to cast their ballots in a presidential election slated for May 28. The committee called on the Syrians living abroad to head to Syrian embassies in their countries of residence with their passports on Wednesday, May 28 from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. so as to practice their constitutional right to choose their president. Syrians abroad are set to vote on May 28 to decide between three candidates competing for the country’s top post, with the Syrians living inside Syria due to vote on June3. M. Ismael Borujerdi: Holding elections in Syria is influential factor in restoring security May 25, 2014   Tehran, (SANA) Chairman of the Iranian Shura Council’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee Alaa-Eddin Borujerdi said holding presidential elections in Syria under the current circumstances would be among the influential factors in restoring security and stability to it. Borujerdi’s remarks came during a meeting with a number of Arab and foreign ambassadors accredited in Tehran. The meeting came in preparation for the 2nd meeting of heads of parliamentary foreign committees of the countries friendly to Syria. He said there is an increasing need for concerted efforts to face terrorism,walk towards an inter-Syrian political solution and reject any foreign interference in Syria. He viewed the holding of the intended meeting in Tehran as an important step that would help in finding a solution to the crisis. Syria’s Ambassador Adnan Mahmoud, for his part, said the timing of the meeting reflects the “honest will” on the part of those countries to extend help to the Syrian people in confronting terrorism and the support given to them by some Western and regional countries. He cited those countries’ stress in the concluding statement of the first meeting that holding free presidential elections is a right of the Syrian people. The statement, Mahmoud said, also included a stress on respecting the will and votes of the Syrian people at the ballot boxes and rejecting any foreign interference in their internal affairs. The Palestinian Ambassador in Tehran Salah al-Zuwawi said Syria is being subjected to these attacks because it has always been a major active country in the resistance against the Zionist occupiers. Syria’s real friends, he added, must support it in the face of the conspirators and occupiers. H. Said Information Minister: Presidential vote shows Syrians’ adherence to national sovereignty May 25, 2014   Damascus, SANA, Information Minister ,Omran al-Zoubi, stressed that the presidential elections are a result of democratic transformation, describing it as “The first national democratic experience in Syrian’s modern and contemporary history.” During a symposium held by National Union of Syria’s Students under the them of “National, sovereign decision” in Damascus, the Minister pointed out that one of the most important reasons behind attacking Syria is its national and independent decision which was embodied in many cases were the just Arab rights were concerned. Al-Zoubi added that achieving the presidential process by the Syrians reflects their adherence to the national and independent decision, noting that the process is a Syrian internal affair, rejecting intervention of the UN Secretary-General, US, Western countries and their tools in the region in Syria’s affairs. He called on the Syrians to actively take part in the upcoming elections and choose who is going to protect the country from the terrorism imposed on it, considering boycotting elections as ” Political nihilism.” B. Mousa/ F. Allafi June 3, a day of loyalty to those who chose death for Syria to live May 25, 2014   Damascus, (SANA) In honor of those who chose death so that life in Syria may get back within its former rhythm, the Syrians pledge unshaken everlasting loyalty by meeting the date of “victory”-June 3. For many Syrians around the country, the date of presidential elections stands for an embodiment of every drop of blood that spilt- and might continue to spill- so as for Syria to rise once more and get back on its feet stronger and more adamant than before. Deeply grateful for each moment of restored security they enjoy whenever a city, town or area declared cleared of terrorists, the Syrian people seem more adherent to holding the first competitive and pluralistic presidential elections in their country’s history on time. In that they see the strongest sign of defiance of the incessant attempts of the anti-Syria camp aimed at making the Syrians’ long-cherished sense of security bygones forever. With the restoration of security and stability becoming the top demand for all of the Syrians, yet they never appear to be willing to give up on their aspirations for an improved democracy, a demand which they see being fulfilled. “Thanks to the sacrifices of our soldiers, we have begun to partially feel security once again,” said Faten Wassouf, wife of martyr Shadi Mohammad Mohammad, expressing pride in the martyrdom of her husband. That same sense of pride was shinning all over the face of Ayoub Zainab, uncle of martyr Nawfal Zainab, as he voiced refusal to accept condolences. “We rather seek congratulations over my nephew’s martyrdom,” he said, adding “All the Syrians who lost loved ones will be congratulated on June 3.” Ayoub considered that going to the polling centers and contributing to electing a president “who is able to bring Syria back to safety” would be the most expressive message of faithfulness to the martyrs. “The real victory being sealed on the battlefield will be crowned with the widest participation in the long-awaited vote,” Ahmad Sulaiman, son of martyr Abbas said with his voice, while shaking with sadness, resonating with honor. H. Said

 

Massive gathering in al Areen area in Damascus in support of presidential elections

May 23, 2014
Damascus, SANA

A massive gathering was held in al-Areen area in Damascus to express support of the national stances, presidential elections and the Syrian Arab Army in confronting terrorism to which the country is exposed.

B. Mousa/ Ghossoun

Syrian rally to support government, army against militants

People across Syria have held massive rallies to express their support for the government of President Bashar al-Assad and the country’s army.

A large crowd of people took part in a rally held in the city of Idlib on Thursday.

The demonstrators carried Syrian flags and chanted slogans in support of the Syrian government and the country’s army that has been battling foreign-backed militants over the past three years.

They also expressed support for the holding of the forthcoming presidential elections in the Arab country. Syrian people will go to the polls on June 3 to elect their next president as Damascus has insisted that it would hold the vote despite the foreign-backed militancy that has plagued the country for more than three years.

In a similar move, pro-government rallies were held in the capital Damascus, Homs, Tartous, and Hasakah. The demonstrators voiced their support for the presidential elections and rejected foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs.

President Assad’s popularity has been on the rise following recent military gains.

Meanwhile, Syrian Special Forces broke a long siege on the Aleppo Central Prison by foreign-backed militants, gaining access to the army garrison and resupplying it with food and munitions, Syria’s official news agency SANA reported.

The Syrian military forces then deployed troops within 200 meters of the prison compound before storming its immediate surroundings. At least 50 militants were killed in the attack. There are nearly 4,000 inmates in the sprawling prison.

Syria has been gripped by a foreign-hatched war since 2011. According to reports, Western powers and their regional allies – especially Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Turkey – are supporting the militants operating inside Syria.

BA/BA

Marches ahead of constitutional vote continue across country May 24, 2014

Provinces, SANA,Syrian people continued Saturday marches in support of presidential elections and Army against terrorism. People of the areas of al-Furuqlos, al-Hamrat, al-Manzoul, al-Sayed, al-Sabounyeh, al-Hazza, al-Madabe’e, Houlaya, Zaydal, Fairouza, al-Qaratain, Sheen, al-Daboussyeh and Hadeda in Homs took to the streets in support of national stances, presidential elections and Army against foreign-backed terrorists. The participants stressed their support to holding the presidential elections on time, reiterating their siding by the army in its battle against terrorism, they expressed support to candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad for his ability to preserve the unity of the homeland and defend the country against all enemies. In Hama, Thousands of persons participated in an event aimed at voicing support to presidential elections and the army. They stressed that candidate Dr. Bashar al-Assad is their option to continue the development and reconstruction process after eliminating terrorism.