Syrian President Bashar Assad won a referendum on extending his presidency for second term, garnering 97.62 percent of votes.
At a press conference, Interior Minister Bassam Abdel-Majid said 95.86 percent of eligible voters – 11.19 million – took part in the vote. Only 1.71 percent voted against renewing Assad's presidency for another term.
The minister said 253,000 votes were invalidated.
"The wide consensus showcases Syria's political maturity and our multi-party politics," the minister added.
The parliament would convene later Tuesday in a special session to celebrate Assad's reelection.
Assad's reelection was certain as he was the only name on the ballot. Celebrations in Syria have started since the parliament, which is dominated by the Baathist pro-government coalition, nominated the 42-year-old leader on May 10.
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