General Joseph Aoun is emerging as the leading candidate for Lebanon’s presidency following indications that Hezbollah’s Suleiman Frangieh may withdraw. Amid renewed political activity and international support, the parliamentary session scheduled to elect a president may finally lead to filling the vacant office, with all attending in hopes of reaching a consensus.
As Lebanon approaches its parliamentary session to elect a new president following a 26-month vacancy, Army Chief General Joseph Aoun appears to be the leading candidate. Reports indicate that Hezbollah’s favored nominee, Suleiman Frangieh, may withdraw, clearing the path for General Aoun’s election. French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian has expressed support for Aoun and advocated for national consensus amidst divisions among political factions. Although previous attempts to elect a president have failed, recent developments may signal a turning point in the political landscape as all parliamentary blocs seem committed to attending the upcoming session, thereby ensuring the necessary quorum for voting.
Political observers have noted an enhanced likelihood for General Aoun’s candidacy, contingent upon receiving backing from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement, potentially securing sufficient votes to avoid constitutional amendments. Prime Minister Najib Mikati has expressed renewed hope that Lebanon may finally see its presidency filled, which has remained contentious and unsolved amidst ongoing turbulence in the region, including conflicts involving Hezbollah. The current political climate, coupled with international engagements, is fostering optimism regarding a possible resolution to the presidential stalemate.
The political environment leading to Thursday’s electoral session has seen a significant decrease in viable candidates, reducing the pool from 11 to just a few, with Aoun, Frangieh, and Jihad Azour remaining prominent. The Maronite Archbishops Council has urged for a unifying figure to emerge, emphasizing the need for national solidarity and reform, thus facilitating Lebanon’s ability to navigate its current challenges. With all eyes set on the parliamentary session, the nation hopes for a coherent strategy to restore political stability and national purpose.
Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, creating a political vacuum that has defied resolution through multiple parliamentary sessions. This prolonged absence of leadership is a result of deep-seated political divisions among various factions. Hezbollah’s influence remains significant in Lebanese politics, often dictating the terms of candidate acceptance and resistance. General Joseph Aoun has emerged as a likely contender for the presidency amidst this turmoil, particularly with mounting suggestions that Hezbollah may pivot away from its support for Frangieh. As such, Aoun’s potential election could entail achieving considerable parliamentary consensus, which has eluded prior attempts.
In summary, General Joseph Aoun’s prospects for become Lebanon’s president have improved as political dynamics shift ahead of the pivotal parliamentary vote. With reports of Hezbollah potentially backing him and all parties reportedly committed to participating in the upcoming session, there exists a tangible route to finally filling the presidential vacancy. The support from influential political figures, including the French envoy, underscores the importance of consensus in overcoming Lebanon’s ongoing political stalemate.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
