Sfeir urges sects to “cooperate” in rescuing nation

 

Maronite Patriarch Nasrallah Butros Sfeir on Wednesday urged the Lebanese to unite, saying that “hidden powers are working on stirring chaos in Lebanon.” “There are hands working to fragmentize the country and all its institutions, including the presidency, the government and Parliament,” Sfeir told a delegation from the

Federation of Iqlim al-Kharroub Municipalities that visited him in Bkirki.

 

“There are those who are also working to divide the Lebanese Army as well as religious institutions,” the patriarch added. Sfeir also received a visit from a delegation from the Doctors for Peace Association on Wednesday.

 

Sfeir urged the Lebanese to unite as only the people could “rescue” the nation. He said Lebanon”s 18 sects should “consort” and “cooperate” so that the country could live in peace.

 

His comments came after nine people were killed in protests in the Shiyyah district of Beirut”s southern suburbs on Sunday. The demonstration against power cuts quickly degenerated into street violence despite the army”s attempts to contain the riots.

 

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Fouad Siniora and Grand Mufti Mohammad Rashid Qabbani telephoned Fadlallah to offer condolences for the death of the nine people who were killed on Sunday.

 

“The overall situation in Lebanon as well as recent developments and ways to contain public anger were discussed during the phone conversations,” a statement issued by Fadlallah”s media office said.