Popular Actress Enters Syrian Parliament Under President's Special Quota
Actress Rouzaina Lazkani. Photo: Collected.
Transitioning from the world of glamour to the arena of politics is nothing new, but a major surprise has now emerged in the political landscape of war-torn Syria. The current President of Syria, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has directly nominated the immensely popular Middle Eastern actress Rouzaina Lazkani as a member of the country's new national parliament, the 'People's Assembly.'
This sensational news came to light globally after Syria's Higher Judicial Committee for Elections released the final list of the new parliament.
The President's Special Powers
According to the Syrian Constitution, the President holds the special authority to directly nominate 70 members of parliament. At a press conference held in Damascus, Mohammed Taha al-Ahmad, a top official of the committee, stated that these 70 individuals were chosen to bring diversity to parliamentary proceedings and to involve experienced professionals from various fields. The 36-year-old glamorous actress secured a spot on this exclusive list.
Empowering Women in Governance: To ensure women's empowerment in the administration, 15 women (21.4%), including Rozina, have been included among the 70 members nominated by the President.
From the Screen to the Senate
Rouzaina Lazkani is a well-known name in the Middle Eastern entertainment industry. Born in the Syrian city of Hama, Rozina pursued higher education in theatre and drama. After graduating in Scenography from the 'Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts,' she made her television acting debut in 2013.
Since then, there has been no looking back. She won the hearts of audiences by starring in one hit Syrian and Arab drama after another. In particular, her performance in the blockbuster and globally acclaimed Middle Eastern thriller series Al Hayba propelled her to the peak of fame.
A New Political Inning
The woman who, until recently, memorized scripts on shooting sets and performed in front of cameras will now stand in the Syrian legislature to speak for the people of her country. According to Middle East political analysts, by bringing such a popular face from the entertainment world into parliament, President Ahmad al-Shara aims to garner significant support from the youth and the cultural sectors.
However, intense discussions are currently underway across the Middle East regarding how Rouzaina Lazkani’s new innings will unfold as she transitions from the world of glamour to the Syrian legislature.
