Bkerke: Maronite Patriarch Beshara Boutros al-Rahi on Wednesday welcomed a delegation from the Change Movement at the Patriarchal Seat in Bkerke. The delegation, led by Elie Mahfoud, visited as part of a New Year courtesy call, during which current developments were reviewed.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Mahfoud expressed support for President Joseph Aoun's recent statements, highlighting their alignment with the inaugural address. He emphasized the significance of addressing the issue of weapons outside state authority, which is being discussed at the highest constitutional level. Mahfoud argued that the coexistence of the Lebanese state with armed groups outside legitimacy is untenable, asserting that sovereignty cannot be divided. He attributed institutional paralysis, economic downfall, and Lebanon's isolation on the international stage to illegal weapons.
Mahfoud further called for the immediate recovery of misappropriated public funds and stressed the need for accountability for those involved in financial misconduct or its concealment. As the May parliamentary elections approach, he urged voters to avoid reinstating the current political class and to seek a complete renewal of political representation.
In a subsequent meeting, Patriarch Rai met with Iranian Ambassador Mojtaba Amani, who departed without providing a statement.
Additionally, Bkerke received other visitors, including Chaldean Patriarchal Vicar Bishop Michel Kassarji.