Ban Ki-moon: Detained generals not a matter to debate

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said it is up to the “special general prosecutor and the judicial authorities” to decide on the continued detention of the four Lebanese generals arrested for suspicion of involvement in the assassination of ex-Premier Rafik Hariri.

 

Ban’s spokeswoman, Michelle Montas, told Al-Mustaqbal daily that the secretary general preferred not to touch on the details, as it is a judicial issue, adding that “It is up to Judge Daniel Bellemare and Lebanese judicial authorities to decide on this matter.”

 

In a press conference, Ban noted the ongoing preparations for the launching of Lebanon’s Special Tribunal and said that the funds collected so far are enough to finance the tribunal’s first year of operation. He also noted that the tribunal’s starting date will be decided upon in cooperation with the Lebanese government.

 

Ban also said that some initiatives have been introduced in cooperation with several countries, but so far, “we haven’t seen any successful results.”

 

“The ongoing presidential vacuum in Lebanon is a danger to the country, and it is up to the government and the Lebanese people to decide on their future,” Ban said.

 

He also stressed on the need to take all necessary measures to ensure the election of a president. “The international community strongly supports the progress of political stability.”