Beirut: The Kataeb’s political bureau convened for its weekly meeting under the leadership of Samy Gemayel, where they discussed pressing political and security issues. The bureau released a statement highlighting key concerns, including potential threats to the integrity of Lebanon’s upcoming parliamentary elections and the destabilizing effects of Hezbollah’s refusal to disarm.
According to National News Agency – Lebanon, the Kataeb political bureau expressed grave concerns about attempts to undermine discussions on the parliamentary elections law. These attempts could either disenfranchise non-resident voters or delay the elections. The bureau emphasized the necessity of allowing expatriates to vote for all 128 members of parliament, arguing that any other approach would marginalize the diaspora. The party criticized the government for not proposing a draft law to amend Article 112, which would safeguard this voting right. The statement also noted the recent withdrawal of Kataeb MPs from a parliamentary session and a boycott by the justice minister in response to the government’s performance. The bureau called for timely and transparent elections, ensuring the participation of all Lebanese citizens, both domestically and internationally.
The bureau also addressed the issue of Hezbollah’s arsenal, emphasizing that it remains outside the jurisdiction of the State and jeopardizes national sovereignty and civil peace. They pointed to recent statements from Hezbollah officials indicating a willingness to disarm south of the Litani River but not north of it, which they argue undermines State authority and intimidates the populace. The Kataeb warned that the failure to bring all weapons under State control exacerbates Lebanon’s ongoing collapse, holding Hezbollah accountable for the nation’s deteriorating state.
Furthermore, the bureau welcomed a U.S. initiative aiming to end the conflict in Gaza, alleviate civilian suffering, and secure the release of hostages. They stressed the importance of international and regional efforts to restore stability and support Palestinian rights. The Kataeb highlighted the significance of Lebanon aligning with this initiative, which enjoys broad Arab support, to avoid isolation and its repercussions.
In preparation for the parliamentary elections, the Kataeb political bureau announced the appointment of Serge Dagher as Assistant to the Party Leader for Political and Electoral Affairs and Walid Fares as the new Secretary-General of the party. These appointments are part of the party’s strategic positioning ahead of the elections.