Syria: Gov't elections begin, low turnout expected

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
Syrians across the country began voting for a new parliament Sunday in elections that few expected would do much more than further consolidate the regime's power. The campaign slogans posted on buildings, trees and buses across the capital promised reform, transparency and prosperity, but there was lack of enthusiasm and some criticism - even in Syria's official newspapers - of the candidates' lack of detailed political programs. Turnout is expected to be low, a tradition in Syria, where parliament has no major say in policy-making. Voting will continue Monday, and results are not expected before Wednesday.