General Joseph Aoun Poised to Become Lebanon’s New President

Lebanon’s presidential election looms as General Joseph Aoun gains momentum following reports of Suleiman Frangieh’s withdrawal. French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian’s endorsement adds to the growing support Aoun may receive, potentially allowing for his election amidst a prolonged presidential vacancy. Optimism prevails after prolonged political paralysis as the parliament prepares for the thirteenth electoral session.

As the Lebanese parliament prepares for a critical session to elect a new president, Army Chief General Joseph Aoun emerges as the front-runner. The ongoing presidential vacancy, which has lasted over 26 months, faces renewed momentum amidst reports suggesting that Hezbollah’s preferred candidate, Suleiman Frangieh, may withdraw from the race. French envoy Jean-Yves Le Drian visited Beirut with the recommendation for Aoun, citing the need for consensus among political factions to overcome resistance aimed at constitutional amendments required for his candidacy due to active military service.

The support from Hezbollah and the Amal Movement could potentially secure Aoun 95 votes in the parliament, thus eliminating the need for constitutional amendments. Prime Minister Najib Mikati expressed optimism regarding the election of a new president, marking a significant shift in sentiment compared to prior skepticism. Following extensive talks among parliamentary blocs, there is hope that consensus can be reached, facilitating Aoun’s election in a timely manner.

In previous voting sessions, political unrest and divisions hindered effective candidate selection, with the number of prospective candidates narrowing significantly due to ongoing conflicts. The perceived unity among parliamentarians fosters optimism, as many now recognize the necessity for a leader capable of uniting the fragmented political landscape. Furthermore, the Maronite Archbishops Council emphasized the need for a president conducive to national unity and forward momentum.

In Lebanon, the presidential office has been unoccupied for over 26 months, creating a political vacuum amid intense factional divisions. Previous electoral attempts have consistently failed due to a lack of agreement among political factions, resulting in repeated parliamentary sessions without a successful candidate. The current political atmosphere has seen a decrease in the number of prospective candidates amid growing calls for unity and fitness of leadership to address national crises and conflicts.

With a potential breakthrough in the presidential election, Joseph Aoun stands on the cusp of assuming the presidency amid significant support from both Hezbollah and the Amal Movement. The evident shift in political dynamics, encouraged by international diplomatic engagement and a collective acknowledgment of the need for consensus, presents a crucial opportunity for Lebanon to reestablish effective governance and mitigate ongoing political discord.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com