By ACI MENA
Beirut, Lebanon, Jan 9, 2025 / 18:00 pm
On January 9, 2025, history was made for the Lebanese people as a presidential vacancy that had lasted for over two years finally came to an end.
With a divided Christian majority, Lebanon has elected a new Maronite president – Army Commander Gen. Joseph Aoun.
In a parliamentary session filled with uncertainty until the last minute, the Lebanese Parliament, gathering in Beirut’s Nejmeh Square, cast their votes and elected Aoun in the second round of elections with 99 out of 128 votes. He now holds the esteemed position as the 14th president of the Republic of Lebanon.
The election came after various Arab and international efforts to put an end to the vacancy, which had been prolonged by the country’s crises, causing a standstill in its institutions.
The parliamentary session was tumultuous, with objections raised by some who viewed the potential election of Aoun as a “constitutional violation” due to his status as a Category One civil servant. Typically, any change in this status would require the approval of an existing president.
The first round of voting fell short of securing the necessary two-thirds majority, leading to a two-hour recess for further deliberations before a second round was conducted.
Joseph Aoun’s election as the new President of Lebanon was a significant event that drew the attention of high-profile Arab and international figures, including the Vatican ambassador to Lebanon, Archbishop Paolo Borgia. The election took place amidst a backdrop of political maneuvering and alliances within the Lebanese Parliament.
Aoun was able to secure the support of the largest Christian bloc in Parliament, the “Strong Republic Bloc,” which is affiliated with the Lebanese Forces Party, as well as its Christian allies in the opposition, such as the Kataeb Party and independent members. However, he faced opposition from the second-largest Christian bloc, the “Strong Lebanon Bloc,” which is affiliated with the Free Patriotic Movement, an ally of Hezbollah. Members of this bloc objected to Aoun’s candidacy on constitutional grounds.
Following his victory, Aoun delivered his inaugural speech at Parliament and took the constitutional oath. In his address, he highlighted the need for political reform in Lebanon, stating, “We are in a governance crisis that demands a change in our political behavior.” He promised to usher in a new chapter in Lebanon’s history.
A familiar figure in Lebanese politics, Aoun’s name is well-known both domestically and internationally. As a former army commander, he emerged as a leading candidate to fill the presidential vacancy, succeeding another former army commander, Gen. Michel Aoun.
The election of Joseph Aoun as President marked a significant moment in Lebanese politics, with promises of reform and change on the horizon. As Lebanon navigates its political landscape, all eyes are on the new leader and his vision for the country’s future.
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