Jbeil Faces a Neutral President And Two Competing Lists
The withdrawals of parliamentary candidates Emile Naufal and Mahmoud Awad (independents) have indirectly placed Fares Soaid, Nazem El-Khoury( March 14 Forces) and Mustafa Al-Husseini in a defacto alliance against MP Michel Aoun in Jbeil.
Observers are expecting the formation of a unified list against Aoun in Jbeil within the next few hours.
Opposition sources told the daily An-Nahar on Friday that the surprise developments in Jbeil have negatively affected the relationship between Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun and President Michel Suleiman.
Parliamentary majority sources disclosed to the daily Al-Liwa on Friday that many attempted to urge the president to act as a mediator in the matter. The president’s response was adamant in saying that he stands on equal distance among all political contenders adding that the presidency is neutral and above electoral disputes.
Former President and Phalange party leader Amin Gemayel and Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea both brought up the issue with the president on the sidelines of the national dialogue last Monday. Both were informed of the president’s neutrality in Jbeil.
President Michel Suleiman is a native of Amsheet, district of Jbeil.