Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi criticized the trend among Lebanese politicians to depend on foreign figures for the presidential election. He underlined the necessity of reinstating trust among political leaders and highlighted the urgency for internal unity and structural reforms ahead of the elections scheduled for January 9.
During a recent Sunday mass, Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi expressed deep concern regarding the pervasive lack of confidence among Lebanese politicians and state institutions. He characterized as a “big shame” the expectation among certain political leaders for foreign intervention in appointing the country’s next president. While acknowledging the support from friendly nations for Lebanon’s electoral process, he highlighted that some individuals are still hopeful for further postponement of the presidential elections scheduled for January 9, a mere ten days away.
Patriarch Al-Rahi emphasized the essential role of the upcoming president, urging for renewed trust among all Lebanese factions and the importance of internal unity grounded in mutual respect and equality under the law. He called for the urgent need to adhere to the structural and institutional reforms previously discussed in international conferences in Paris, Rome, and Brussels.
Addressing the current power vacuum that has plagued Lebanon since Michel Aoun’s term ended on October 31, 2022, Al-Rahi stressed that it is crucial to identify a suitable candidate for the presidency who is willing to undertake the challenging responsibilities while earning the collective trust of the politicians and the Lebanese populace. His remarks came in light of Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri’s call for a parliamentary session on January 9 to elect the next president, along with a deadline aimed at achieving consensus among lawmakers.
The political landscape in Lebanon has been tumultuous, particularly following the conclusion of Michel Aoun’s presidential term, marking the country’s fourth power vacuum since independence. The Maronite Patriarch serves as a significant spiritual and cultural leader within the Maronite Christian community, often influencing broader political discourse. The upcoming presidential election, positioned as a pivotal event for the nation’s governance and stability, has been marked by political fragmentation and external pressures, raising concerns regarding the integrity and outcomes of the electoral process.
In conclusion, Maronite Patriarch Bechara Boutros Al-Rahi’s disavowal of postponed presidential elections signals a critical juncture for Lebanon. His call for unity among Lebanese politicians, trust in state institutions, and adherence to necessary reforms emphasizes the urgent need for effective leadership. With the elections set for January 9, the patriarch’s insights serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between domestic and foreign influences in shaping Lebanon’s political future.
Original Source: www.plenglish.com
