USUP President Ibrahim Mrad: The people of Lebanon are the only ones who can end corruption

BEIRUT – As the economic crisis in Lebanon continues to worsen, and protests resume despite social restrictions attempting to contain the coronavirus, calls have intensified for corrupt officials to be prosecuted.

Over the past few months, Lebanon witnessed a severe liquidity crisis and the crashing of the Lebanese Pound against the U.S. Dollar. At the end of March, the country announced for the first time that it would no longer be able to fulfill its foreign debt obligations.

The imposition of economic restrictions as a measure against the spreading of the coronavirus pandemic coupled with pre-existing financial issues and widespread corruption at the highest-levels of government and business have led to a rapid decline in the living conditions for most Lebanese.

President of the Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP) in Lebanon Ibrahim Mrad affirmed that only the people can support the trial of corrupt officials who are responsible for stealing the money of the Lebanese public. He also confirmed his support for every politician or deputy who exposes the country’s looters.

“We support every deputy, politician, and any person who exposes the looters of the public’s wealth, whatever party, denomination, or affiliation they belong to. We demand they be brought before courts in a transparent process to maintain public respect for state institutions and the judiciary,” stated Mrad.

However, he questioned whether such a trial was possible. “But, is the judiciary independent enough to dare to try these criminals, thieves, and corrupt members of the ruling class?”

“Do you think that corruption has been fought, the hand of the thief has been cut, the looted money has been restored and the promises given to the people have been fulfilled?” he continued.

Mrad concluded with an impassioned call for the people of Lebanon to hold to account those who have robbed them, even if they are friends or relatives:

“No member of the ruling class has been held accountable because they are tightening their grip over the judiciary and the state apparatus. Instead, they use the judiciary to hold accountable every poor person who tries to steal a loaf of bread. O great people, you are the only ones who can support the trial of the corrupt, by means of your morals, your love for your country and your stand for your dignity and the country’s dignity stolen by these tyrants. Rise up, for your life and for the future of your children, break free from your narrow affiliations and embrace the broader homeland. Do not defend the thieves and the corrupt even if they are of your own kin.”