Beirut: The electoral process continues calmly across the governorates of South Lebanon and Nabatieh, supported by tight security from the army and internal security forces deployed in and around polling centers.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, in Jezzine, turnout picked up around noon, reaching 25% in Jezzine and Ain Majdalin, with an average of 20% across the district. Competition is intensifying between the 'Free Patriotic Movement' alliance with former MP Ibrahim Azar, and the Lebanese Forces-Kataeb list. Security forces are ensuring a smooth process with no incidents reported.
In Sidon, President Joseph Aoun, joined by Ministers Michel Menassa and Ahmad Hajjar, launched the voting process from the South Governorate Operations Room. Turnout in Sidon reached 12.5% by noon. Notable voters included Mustafa Hijazi, head of the 'Sawa for Sidon' list, MP Osama Saad, and Omar Murjan, head of the 'Sidon Deserves' list. Civil defense teams helped voters with special needs, while traffic congestion was reported on the Ramliyeh-Awwali road due to heavy turnout.
Voting also proceeded without major disruptions, aside from a brief halt in the Murjan polling center due to a health issue affecting a poll worker.
In Tyre, the process unfolded peacefully in villages like Yarin, Marwahin, and Al-Bustan. In Al-Ramadiyah, a more heated race was underway between Hezbollah-Amal's 'Development and Loyalty' list and local family-based candidates. Turnout there reached 10% by mid-morning.
In Nabatieh, voting was steady and competitive, with festive atmospheres around polling stations. Interior Minister Hajjar visited Nabatieh's government headquarters and toured polling centers. He praised the resilience of southerners and the state's commitment to holding elections independently.
MP Nasser Jaber voted in Nabatieh, expressing hope that new municipalities would focus on public service. Active races unfolded in towns like Kfar Reman, Doueir, and Ansar, while 16 municipalities won by acclamation.
In Bint Jbeil, turnout exceeded 20% in several villages and reached 25% in Yaroun. Calm and security prevailed.
In Zahrani, the vote progressed steadily, especially in villages like Maghdousheh and Marwaniyeh where turnout hit 20% by noon. In areas where municipal councils were elected unopposed, family contests remained for mayoral seats.
Security forces from various agencies maintained order across polling centers in all districts.