After two years of political gridlock, Lebanese lawmakers have finally chosen a new president. Michel Aoun, a former army general and leader of the Free Patriotic Movement, was elected as the country’s 13th president in a parliamentary vote that took place on Monday.
The election of Aoun comes after a long period of political deadlock in Lebanon, with the country’s top post remaining vacant since May 2014. The country’s political factions have been unable to agree on a candidate, leading to a prolonged period of uncertainty and instability.
Aoun’s election is seen as a breakthrough in Lebanon’s political stalemate, and is expected to bring some much-needed stability to the country. The 81-year-old politician has vowed to work towards uniting the country’s fractured political landscape and addressing the many challenges facing Lebanon, including a struggling economy and a refugee crisis resulting from the war in neighboring Syria.
Aoun’s election was made possible by a surprise endorsement from former rival Saad Hariri, a Sunni Muslim politician and leader of the Future Movement. Hariri’s support for Aoun was seen as a major step towards breaking the political impasse, and paved the way for Aoun’s election as president.
The new president’s election has been met with mixed reactions in Lebanon. Supporters of Aoun see him as a strong leader who can bring much-needed stability to the country, while critics are concerned about his close ties to the Shia militant group Hezbollah and fear that he may further deepen the country’s sectarian divides.
Despite these concerns, Aoun has promised to be a president for all Lebanese citizens, regardless of their political or religious affiliations. He has also pledged to work towards implementing much-needed reforms and improving the country’s economic situation.
Lebanon has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including political instability, economic hardship, and the ongoing Syrian refugee crisis. The election of Michel Aoun as president marks a new chapter in the country’s political landscape, and provides hope for a brighter future for the Lebanese people. Only time will tell if Aoun will be able to deliver on his promises and bring about the much-needed change that Lebanon so desperately needs.
