ALEPPO, Syria — Dec. 1 was Kenana Abdul Razzaq’s first day of work on the local council of Ain Jara in western Aleppo province. Her election Nov. 24 marked the first time women have been allowed to run — or vote — in this area held by the Free Syrian Army (FSA).
Out of four female candidates, Abdul Razzaq was the only one elected to the 15-member council, which represents the town and surrounding rural areas. At the council's first meeting, the members elected a president, vice president and members of the executive bureau.