Damascus Sit-In Calls for Political Transition and Economic Justice

Welat TV – Erbil

A group of citizens staged a sit-in on Saturday in front of the People's Assembly building in the Syrian capital, Damascus, calling for a political transition and improved living conditions amid a heavy security presence.

Participants in the protest, held under the slogan “Law and Dignity” and the hashtag “#WeWantToLive,” carried banners featuring economic and political demands, including opposition to the privatization of public assets, linking wages to prices, and ending what they described as arbitrary dismissals of employees. They also called for strengthening the rule of law and ensuring greater transparency in the management of resources and investments.

During the event, several participants stressed the importance of building a state based on the peaceful transfer of power and respect for the law, while others emphasized the need to promote equal citizenship and reject sectarian or political classifications that could lead to exclusion.

Meanwhile, a number of supporters of the current government gathered near the site of the sit-in and held a counter-demonstration. Later, security forces intervened and asked participants to disperse, citing a decree that authorizes the dissolution of unauthorized gatherings.

Organizers subsequently announced the end of the event to avoid any confrontation with security personnel.

The “April 17 Gathering,” a civil grassroots movement, had called for the sit-in, stating that its demands include achieving a genuine political transition, holding those responsible for violations accountable, improving living conditions, and preventing the privatization of public services.