Lebanese Forces secure sweeping victories in northern municipal elections amid moderate turnout

BEIRUT — In a demonstration of political strength, the Lebanese Forces (LF) party secured major victories across municipalities in Lebanon’s northern governorates, including North Lebanon and Akkar, during the second phase of the municipal elections over the weekend.

Preliminary results released Sunday evening revealed LF-backed slates dominating key districts, reflecting the party’s growing grassroots appeal amid Lebanon’s complex political landscape.

In Batroun, the LF-supported coalition list ‘Tannourine First,’ led by prominent lawyer Majd Harb, achieved a decisive victory. Other LF-backed lists also secured wins, including ‘The Best is Yet to Come,’ ‘Rise of Bqarsouna,’ ‘Majd Zane,’ ‘All of Us for Kfaraabida,’ ‘Hand in Hand,’ and ‘Shabtin is My Identity.’

The LF’s influence remained strong across the northern region. In the Bsharri district, the official LF slate “Strong Republic” emerged victorious, as did LF-backed lists in Zgharta and Koura, where the party claimed the majority of municipal seats.

In the strategically important Akkar governorate, LF-endorsed lists secured wins in several key towns, further underscoring the party’s expanding reach. Even at the level of mokhtars (village headmen), LF allies made significant gains, particularly in Zgharta.

The Interior Ministry reported voter turnout of approximately 36% in North Lebanon governorate and more than 47% in Akkar. While these figures are modest, they are notable given widespread voter apathy and economic challenges.

Turnout varied across districts: Tripoli, a traditional Sunni stronghold, recorded just over 25%, while Zgharta and Koura saw nearly 39% each. In Bsharri, turnout surpassed 32%, and Batroun recorded the highest at nearly 50%.

While these municipal victories may not immediately influence national policy, analysts believe they position the LF as a pivotal force in shaping local governance amid public dissatisfaction with Lebanon’s ruling elite.

Municipal elections in Lebanon often serve as a barometer for broader political sentiment, especially in a country where national elections are infrequent, and consensus-based governance often leads to institutional stagnation.