(Image source: Scotsman)

BY ZAKIYYAH WAHAB

ANCHOR CHRISTINA HARTMAN

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It might be a victory for the Syrian government, but Western observers think Syria’s latest constitutional referendum means more trouble. CNN has more.

“...Syria says nearly 90% of voters approved a new constitution which would keep President al-Assad in power but would be a step towards a potential reform...”

Described as a “farce” by Western observers — critics say the new constitution does nothing to solve the current chaos in Syria. According to opponents, change can only be achieved by removing President Bashar al Assad from power. The Global Post reports...

“...analysts ... agreed the new text did nothing to limit the president’s absolute powers ... [instead maintaining] the president’s immunity from prosecution, as well as his status as head of the judiciary, parliament and military...”

But The New York Times says although voting and count were controlled, it is possible...

“...the authorities ... did not need to manipulate the results, since they still enjoy some support and the opposition mostly boycotted the balloting.”

Those in favor of the Syrian regime welcome the results of the referendum. According to RIA Novosti — Russia’s Foreign Minister described the situation as...

“...a step toward democracy … [confirming] popular support ... [to ‘turn] Syria into a modern democratic state, expanding the rights and freedoms of its citizens’.”

Although the Syrian government has been condemned for holding the referendum amidst the bloodshed, France 24 reports former far-right head Jean-Marie Le Pen defended the Syrian president. Le Pen compared the casualties in Syria to those during World War II and described President Assad as...

“...a government leader ... facing a rebellion which is both civil and military … [that it is not] abnormal [for] the Syrian state [to defend] itself.”

But Western powers who oppose the constitution are stepping up their pressure on the Syrian government.

According to The Telegraph, European Union foreign ministers have agreed to sanctions — including restrictions on trade and the freezing of assets on the central bank of Syria.

The referendum could place President Assad in power until 2028. This is Syria’s third referendum since the president came to power after the death of his father.