02/08/2024

Lebanon’s presidential election stalemate concerns Christian leaders, warns Maronite Patriarch al-Rai

BEIRUT — The ongoing impasse in electing a president for Lebanon remains a significant concern for the country’s Christian community. This unresolved issue is hindering the functioning of constitutional institutions and poses a risk of leading Lebanon to unfavorable outcomes.

Syriac Maronite Patriarch Mor Bechara Boutros al-Rai voiced his astonishment over the failure to elect a president for Lebanon, condemning the persistent constitutional violations and the acceptance of a presidential vacancy.

In an interview with Lebanese media, Patriarch al-Rai questioned the practical implementation of the Christian National Pact within the House of Representatives and the Council of Ministers.

He expressed deep concern for the integrity of constitutional institutions, emphasizing that the current situation jeopardizes the nation’s future and constitutes a reckless gamble with Lebanon’s destiny.