Syrian held a referendum on Sunday on a new constitution as part of its democratization effort. At the same time its military continued its crackdown in the central city of Homs.The new constitution would impose a limit of two 7-year terms on the president. It would allow a multiparty system, instead of the current single-party rule by the Baath Party.
Syria's state-run TV channel carried images showing President Bashar al-Assad and his wife casting their ballots. It also broadcast interviews with supporters of the new constitution.Meanwhile, the Syrian military continues its crackdown in Homs, which serves as an opposition stronghold.
It attacked residential areas in the city indiscriminately using tanks and mortar shells. A local human rights activist says at least 130 people died across Syria over the weekend.The activist says civilians cannot do anything but try to protect their families and that there is no point in holding the referendum while carrying out the bloodshed.
The Assad regime is apparently seeking to divert domestic and international condemnation by holding a parliamentary election within 3 months as part of its democratization process.
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