Aoun Names Four Candidates in Chouf and One in Koura
MP Michel Aoun on Monday announced the names of four candidates in the Chouf district in addition to one in Koura.
In a press conference, Aoun said the Free Pateriotic Movement has nominated Abdou Monzer, Antoine al-Bustani, Nassif Azzi and Mario Aoun to run in the Chouf district and George Atallah in Koura.
On reconciling with the Phalange, Aoun dismissed the idea, pointing to "great differences" dividing the two sides.
"The Phalange accused us of being behind the murder of Pierre Gemayel and we were repeatedly denied permission to convey our condolences," Aoun recalled.
He said the Phalange”s disrespect to social norms can only be fixed through "a public and individual apology."
"Politically, they criticized my ties with some parties, but did not hesitate to meet some of them," including a delegation from Hizbullah.
"They have always wanted our relations to be as such. And I do not find a way for reconciliation at all."
Turning his attention to another opponent, Aoun slammed as "barbaric" the economic system advocated by MP Saad Hariri blaming it for "ruining everything."
He said the Mustaqbal Movement and "all those who contributed to the budget deficit are worried the people might discover the reality of their political and economic performance. They are worried the Lebanese public might know them for who they really are."
Aoun said he was "not bothered" by a rapprochement between Minister Talal Arslan and MP Walid Jumblat and added that MP Michel Murr "can never be part of the FPM”s ticket in the Metn district."
He concluded by saying he will be visiting Bkirki for Easter holiday.