MPs are arriving at Parliament Square to take part in the thirteenth session, scheduled for 11 AM, to elect the 14th President of the Republic.
Various MPs have shared their views:
“Strong Republic” bloc MP Charbel Massaad stated, “The path of change began with the October 17 revolution, and this path is now crystallizing with the arrival of General Joseph Aoun at Baabda Palace.”
He noted in his remarks prior to the session that Aoun’s fair and serious military work earned him recognition both domestically and internationally. Aoun’s arrival in Baabda, he added, should represent “a new birth for the Lebanese Republic.”
Moreover, MP Razi al-Hajj stated, "Should any party disturb this consensus, it must be prepared to be held accountable before the court of public opinion."
Hadi Abou al-Hosn, a member of the "Democratic Gathering", emphasized that his bloc supported Aoun's nomination to pave the way for a breakthrough "based on national considerations, free from any external influences or directives from any party."
“We will vote for stability and for the Lebanese army,” he disclosed, adding that the next step should be forming a new government “which takes into account the Taif Accord and 1701 in addition to an economic, social and reform program that meets Lebanese aspirations.”
MP Elias Jaradi disclosed that he supports several presidential candidates, "one of whom was the army commander." He also highlighted that Aoun acts as "a unifying figure and instills confidence in this crucial phase that demands capable leadership."
MP Firas Hamdan stressed that "no one should obstruct the national consensus and the growing momentum, both popular and political, to elect Joseph Aoun as president in today's session."
Additionally, MP Ghassan Skaf remarked that "times have changed," with some political factions approaching the presidential election with renewed perspectives. He emphasized, "Now, the opposition voices are strong, and others need to adjust."
MP Simon Abi Ramia expressed hope that the "Shiite coalition will join us in unity to usher in a new era for Lebanon." He asserted, "Our decision is independent and our conscience is clear as we have not been influenced or coerced in any way. We have not awaited any clandestine directives or pressures."
MP Ibrahim Mneimneh believed that consensus has been reached on the candidacy of the army commander, emphasizing the need for unity. He stated, "We are convinced that all political factions understand the gravity of the situation and the peril of allowing this day to pass without a president."
Member of the "Strong Lebanon" bloc, MP Edgar Traboulsi, announced that his bloc has no preferred candidate for today unless a consensus is reached. He acknowledged the respect for the army commander but highlighted the importance of upholding the constitutional procedures.
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