General Joseph Aoun, who has led the Lebanese army since 2017, was electedin the second round of voting by the parliament, securing 99 votes out of 128.
It seems the new Lebanese president will consider the concerns and interestsof the countries that have worked for months to settle a solution to Lebanon'spersistent political crisis. This crisis, which left the presidency vacantafter former President Michel Aoun's term ended, has significantly impactedLebanon's governance.
His first public appearance as president, delivering his inaugural speechwhile dressed in civilian attire rather than his military uniform, representsthis initial challenge. The transition from military service to civilianleadership reflects a significant shift in responsibility to the people and thenation.
In his first presidential address, General Aoun described his presidency asa "new chapter in Lebanon’s history," outlining the policies he plansto pursue. His speech conveyed messages both to the domestic audience and theinternational community, aiming to reassure all parties and set the directionfor the priorities of the presidency.
One of the key messages from Aoun was a firm affirmation of the state'sright to monopolize the use of force. He emphasized the army’s responsibilityin securing Lebanon’s borders, particularly the southern and eastern borders,and the importance of completing the border demarcation process, referringspecifically to the borders with Syria and Israel.
Additionally, he reiterated Lebanon's commitment to the right of Palestinianrefugees to return and stated that "we have a historic opportunity tobuild serious dialogue with the Syrian state to address pending issues betweenour two countries, especially in terms of respecting sovereignty andstability."
He also emphasized that Lebanon’s martyrs are "the spirit of ourdetermination," and that the country’s prisoners are "a trust uponus." He encapsulated this sentiment with a poignant statement: "Ifone of us is broken, we are all broken," addressing the politicalnarrative that some have suggested that the Shiite community no longer holdsdecisive power in Lebanon's political and security decisions.
He also committed to upholding a free economy, while also working tostrengthen social safety nets and ensure respect for media freedom andexpression within constitutional boundaries.
General Aoun now faces the challenge of governing as a political leaderrather than a military commander in a country marked by deep politicalcomplexities, sectarian divisions, and power struggles between politicalfactions.
This challenge will test his ability to navigate Lebanon’s delicatepolitical landscape, shaped by 34 years of post-civil war sectarianism andongoing tensions.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( From barracks to presidency: will Lebanon’s new president steer the country away from the war? )
Also on site :