Bundle Of English Reports, News and Editorials For December 21-22/2019 Addressing the On Going Mass Demonstrations & Sit In-ins In Iranian Occupied Lebanon in its 66th Day
Compiled By: Elias Bejjani
December 22/2019
Tites For The Latest English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related News published on December 21-22/2019
Paris Urges ‘Competent’ Lebanese Govt. to Implement Reforms
Diab Vows No Time Waste, Intensification of Consultations
Lebanon’s new PM-designate confident his government will get Western support
Diab Begins Non-Binding Consultations to Form Government
Lebanon PM-designate begins tough talks to form government/The country has not had a government since October
Lebanon’s new PM-designate begins consultations over next Cabinet
Berri Says Delay in Govt. Formation Accelerates ‘Economic Bankruptcy’
Diab at the end of consultations: We will form a mini government of independent experts as soon as possible; Dar AlFatwa’s visit will be after the government formation
Bassil after meeting Diab: We need clean and honest ministers
Hariri’s Press Office: Rebuttal of Al-Liwaa
Makhzoumi: It is not possible to facilitate the affairs of the Lebanese without a government
Salam says every person keen on preserving his homeland will not place obstacles
Mountain Guarantee Bloc expresses readiness to aid the PM-designate to succeed in his mission and meet the demands of the Lebanese people
Armenian Bloc: We will participate in the government according to its form
Demerjian: We count on the wisdom of the PMdesignate to bring in specialists who respect the law
Adwan after meeting with Diab: We do not have any demands as a Party; we are interested in a government of specialists
Ferzli after meeting Diab: We called for a reform government
Kataeb Bloc says the only solution today lies in early parliamentary elections
Development and Liberation Bloc after meeting Diab: For a rescue emergency government
Raad says government will not be confrontational
Jisr says Future Bloc will not participate in government
Berri insists on including all parties in cabinet after meeting with Diab
Geagea wishes ‘success’ to new government
Al-Rahi: We pray for the success of the PM-designate’s mission
Bassil Meets Hale at His Residence
S&P Rates Lebanon at CCC/C with Negative Outlook
Scuffles continue in Lebanon between Hariri supporters and security forces
Clashes Renew between Army, Mustaqbal Supporters in Corniche al-Mazraa
The Latest English LCCC Lebanese & Lebanese Related News published on December 21-22/2019
Paris Urges ‘Competent’ Lebanese Govt. to Implement Reforms
Naharnet/December 21/2019
The French foreign ministry on Friday said that it is “up to the Lebanese officials” to form the new government, refusing to comment further on the appointment of Hassan Diab as PM-designate. A spokeswoman for the ministry however said that the formation of the new government should respect “the public interest of all Lebanese.”“The only criterion should be the competence of this government in order to serve the reforms that the people are awaiting,” she added.
Diab Vows No Time Waste, Intensification of Consultations
Naharnet/December 21/2019
Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab on Friday warned that the situation in Lebanon “does not allow for any waste of time,” vowing to “intensify consultations to reach the result that the Lebanese are hoping for.”“The responsibility for Lebanon’s rise is huge and everyone is aware of the economic and financial challenge that the country is going though. Let us begin a new journey that resembles the will of the people,” Diab tweeted. “Your demands are rightful and they represent a groundwork for building a new state,” Diab added, addressing citizens and protesters. Diab’s non-binding consultations with the parliamentary blocs on the shape and line-up of the new government are scheduled for Saturday. Earlier on Friday, Diab said that he plans to form a government of experts and independents to deal with the country’s crippling economic crisis. Diab spoke to reporters following a meeting with caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri, a day after he was asked by the president to form the country’s next government. Diab, a university professor and former education minister, won a majority of lawmakers’ votes after receiving backing from the powerful Hizbullah and its allies. However, he lacks the support of major Sunni figures, including the largest Sunni party headed by Hariri. That is particularly problematic for Diab, who as a Sunni, lacks support from his own community. Diab, however, emerged from Friday’s meeting with Hariri saying the atmosphere was “positive.” “As an expert and an independent, my inclination is to form a government that is truly made up of experts and independents” Diab said. Shortly after he spoke, scuffles broke out between Hariri’s supporters protesting on a Beirut street and army units, underlying the tension on the ground. “I ask them (protesters) to give us a chance to form an exceptional government” that can work on resolving the country’s many problems, accumulated over the past 30 years, Diab said. Diab faces a huge challenges in trying to form a consensual government that would also satisfy protesters who have been on the streets since mid-October, seeking to sweep away an entire political class they deem as corrupt. He also faces a mammoth task of dealing with the country’s economic and financial crisis in one of the most indebted countries of the world. Support from the Iran-backed Hizbullah guarantees Diab a thorny path, potentially inviting criticism from Western and Gulf nations that had supported Hariri. Friendly nations, including France, have made clear they will not support the heavily indebted nation before a reform-minded Cabinet is formed.
Lebanon’s new PM-designate confident his government will get Western support
Al Arabiya English/Saturday, 21 December 2019
Lebanon’s new Hezbollah-backed Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab said in an interview with Al Hadath that his appointment was constitutional and that he would not have trouble receiving Western support if the government is from independent “specialists.” Diab also added that he will be meeting with all parties and denominations, including the Sunnis. Diab’s nomination was rejected by the Sunnis after he failed to receive the support of former prime minister Saad Hariri and his party. Under the Lebanese sectarian political system the seat of the prime minister is left to a Sunni Muslim. Diab, an academic and former education minister, was designated on Thursday as the country’s next prime minister with the support of the heavily armed Shiite Muslim Lebanese Hezbollah and its allies. The US, UK, and Arab League have designated Hezbollah a terrorist organization. Analysts say Diab faced obstacles due to his reliance on Hezbollah’s support and a lack of real support from his Sunni sect or the protest movement. “Diab is already presented as a pro-Hezbollah PM which kills any possibility to get the international financial aid which is the only chance to get out of the crisis,” said Sami Nader, head of the Levant Institute for Strategic Affairs. Lebanon, in its worst economic crisis since the 1975-90 civil war, has been seeking a new government since Prime Minister Hariri resigned on October 29 in response to protests against the ruling elite.
With Agencies
Diab Begins Non-Binding Consultations to Form Government
Naharnet/December 21/2019
Lebanon’s premier-designate Hassan Diab begins Saturday non-binding consultations with heads of parliamentary blocs in order to form Lebanon’s much-delayed government amid wide protests rejecting his designation. Diab, a university professor and former education minister, will have to steer Lebanon out of its worst economic and financial crisis in decades. He’s also taking office against the backdrop of ongoing nationwide protests against the country’s ruling elite. Diab began his meetings Saturday at parliament with Speaker Nabih Berri, then held talks with former prime ministers, including caretaker premier Hariri. Berri did not make any statement to reporters after the meeting. Later a statement was released by Berri’s media office, he said the “new government is an opportunity for reunion” and should “represent all political parties starting with the protest movement, al-Mustaqbal Movement (of resigned PM Saad Hariri), the Lebanese Forces and the Progressive Socialist Party (PSP).”The PSP’s Democratic Gathering bloc of ex-MP Walid Jumblat officially announced non-participation in the consultations and the new government.
After holding talks with Diab, Hariri did not comment on the government formation, but urged his supporters to “express their opinion peacefully without assaulting the Lebanese army and security forces,” after Friday’s clashes between the two in Corniche al-Mazraa. “When PM Rafik Hariri was assassinated, we did not hurl stones at anyone. You can express your opinion peacefully and the Lebanese army is our army.”After meeting Diab, Hariri and Berri held talks on the sidelines of the consultations. Former PM Tammam Salam said after meeting the PM-designate: “We are in the midst of an uncomfortable situation in the country, especially that a large group does not agree with what is happening. What we witnessed yesterday in the streets is not permissible.” On Friday, scuffles broke out in Beirut and other areas between supporters of Hariri, and Lebanese troops and riot policemen. The ex-premier’s supporters were protesting Diab’s nomination. The scuffles left at least seven soldiers injured. “We look forward to forming an effective government of experts,” said Deputy Speaker Elie Ferzli, adding “we called for a small government, implementation of reforms and fighting corruption.” Al-Mustaqbal Movement bloc told Diab that it will not take part in the new government, and urged the PM-designate for a “swift government formation.”Development and Liberation bloc met Diab and called for an “emergency cabinet representing all parties and the popular movement in order to rescue the country from the current crisis.”
Hizbullah’s Loyalty to the Resistance bloc voiced calls for “serious dialogue in order to rescue the country,” said MP Mohammed Raad. “No one wants a government of confrontations. Rather, it must present the correct approach to energize the financial and economic situation.”
The Kataeb bloc said: “Staging early parliamentary elections is the only solution for the crisis paving way for the people to choose their representatives.” Lebanese banks have imposed unprecedented capital controls over the past weeks. Thousands have lost their jobs, while the economy is expected to contract in 2020. The new prime minister won a majority of lawmakers’ votes after receiving backing from Hizbullah and its allies, which have a majority of seats in parliament. However, he lacks the support of major Sunni figures, including the largest Sunni party headed by Hariri. That’s particularly problematic for Diab, who, as a Sunni, doesn’t have the backing of his own community. And under Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing agreement, the prime minister must be Sunni. Hizbullah had backed Hariri for prime minister from the start, but the group differed with him over the shape of the new government.
Lebanon’s sustained, leaderless protests erupted in mid-October, and forced Hariri’s resignation within days. But politicians were later unable to agree on a new prime minister. The ongoing protests and paralysis have worsened the economic crisis.
Lebanon PM-designate begins tough talks to form government/The country has not had a government since October
Agence France Presse/December 22/2019
Lebanon’s prime minister-designate on Saturday launched consultations to form a desperately-needed government for a protest-hit country facing economic collapse, saying political leaders are warming up to a line-up of independent experts. Debt-burdened Lebanon has been without a fully functioning government since former prime minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29 in the face of nationwide protests. Demonstrators are demanding an overhaul of the political establishment which they deem corrupt and inept, insisting on a government of independents and experts with no ties to the country’s sectarian parties.
But Shiite groups Amal and Hezbollah have been demanding a government that includes representatives of established parties. “Lebanon is in intensive care,” prime minister-designate Hassan Diab told reporters after meeting several political leaders on Saturday.
“All (political) sides are in line with my (proposal) for a government of independents and experts, including Hezbollah,” he said.
Mr Diab, a 60-year-old engineering professor and self-styled technocrat, said he is hoping to set up a 20-member government within four to six weeks. He said he would start talks with representatives of the popular movement on Sunday to form such a government. But the challenges he must overcome became clear however from the onset of Saturday’s talks with various officials and lawmakers. Parliament speaker Nabih Berri said he “insists on securing representation for all parliamentary groups,” in the next government — a position shared by his Shiite Amal party. Hezbollah MP Mohammad Raad after meeting Mr Diab said “wider representation” would help accelerate the formation of a government.
Foreign Minister Gebran Bassil, who heads the Hezbollah-allied Free Patriotic Movement, said he would prefer a government that did not include high-profile political figures, but said that parliamentary blocs should be represented in some form. Mr Diab was designate prime minister on Thursday with backing from the Iran-backed Hezbollah, Amal and Bassil’s FPM. But Mr Hariri’s Sunni bloc did not endorse his nomination, along with other key Christian and Druze Muslim parties and all have said they will not take part in Diab’s government. Samir al-Jisr, an MP from Hariri’s Future Movement, said the government Diab would set up would be “supported by only one political stripe”.
On the ground, Sunni supporters of Hariri have blocked roads with burning tyres and scuffled with security forces in Beirut and other cities for the past two consecutive nights to voice their opposition for Diab. Hezbollah sought to appease the anger of the protesters on Saturday, insisting that the next government will not be lopsided. “No one should think the government will be one of confrontation or one endorsed by only one political stripe,” said Raad. The new government, he said, will seek to “revitalise” the economy that has taken a beating since the unprecedented protests began on October 17.
Since then, tensions have been heightened by the looming bankruptcy of the debt-burdened Lebanese state.
A dollar-liquidity crisis has pushed banks to impose informal capital controls on dollar deposits and the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent of its value on the black market. The faltering economy has pushed several companies to close, while surviving businesses try to stay open by paying half-salaries and laying off employees. A recession of more than 0.2 percent is expected for this year, the World Bank says. The international community, donors, and financial organisations have warned that debt-saddled Lebanon could ill afford any delay in getting a new government. The United States, France and other allies of Lebanon have warned they would withhold financial support until a government that can demonstrate willingness to reform can be formed. Multi-confessional Lebanon is ruled by a complex political system that seeks to maintain a fragile equilibrium between political parties representing the country’s major confessional sects. It usually takes months to form a government as political groups haggle over the allocation of cabinet seats and the distribution of ministerial portfolios.
Lebanon’s new PM-designate begins consultations over next Cabinet
The Associated Press, Beirut/Saturday, 21 December 2019
Lebanon’s newly designated prime minister began his consultations on Saturday with parliamentary blocs to discuss the shape of the future government. Hassan Diab, a university professor and former education minister, will have to steer Lebanon out of its worst economic and financial crisis in decades. He’s also taking office against the backdrop of ongoing nationwide protests against the country’s ruling elite. The consultations began a day after scuffles broke out in Beirut and other areas between supporters of the outgoing prime minister, Saad Hariri, and Lebanese troops and riot policemen. The ex-premier’s supporters were protesting Diab’s nomination. The scuffles left at least seven soldiers injured. Diab began his meetings Saturday at parliament with Speaker Nabih Berri, then held talks with former prime ministers, including caretaker premier Hariri. The two men had also met the previous day, when Diab said he plans to form a government of experts and independents to deal with the country’s crippling economic crisis. Lebanese banks have imposed unprecedented capital controls over the past weeks. Thousands have lost their jobs, while the economy is expected to contract in 2020. Hariri cautioned his supports Saturday against violent protests, saying: “The army is ours and police forces are for all Lebanese.” A lawmaker from the bloc led by the Shia Amal group – headed by parliament speaker Berri – said the incoming government should focus on fighting corruption. “It should be an emergency government that works on solving the economic, financial, social and banking crisis,” said Anwar al-Khalil after the meeting with Diab. The new prime minister won a majority of lawmakers’ votes after receiving backing from Hezbollah group and its allies, which have a majority of seats in parliament.
However, he lacks the support of major Sunni figures, including the largest Sunni party headed by Hariri. That’s particularly problematic for Diab, who, as a Sunni, doesn’t have the backing of his own community. And under Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing agreement, the prime minister must be Sunni. Hezbollah had backed Hariri for prime minister from the start, but the group differed with him over the shape of the new government. Lebanon’s sustained, leaderless protests erupted in mid-October, and forced Hariri’s resignation within days. But politicians were later unable to agree on a new prime minister. The ongoing protests and paralysis have worsened the economic crisis.
Berri Says Delay in Govt. Formation Accelerates ‘Economic Bankruptcy’
Naharnet/December 21/2019
Speaker Nabih Berri said on Saturday that protest-hit Lebanon faces the risk of “economic and financial bankruptcy” if the formation of a new government is not accelerated amid an unprecedented economic crisis gripping the country, al-Joumhouria daily reported. “After the designation (of PM Hassan Diab) the main efforts must focus on forming a rescue government to salvage the stifling economic and financial crisis,” said Berri in remarks to the daily. He warned that Lebanon faces a major risk if the formation is delayed further. “We are inevitably heading to economic and financial bankruptcy if we do not accelerate the formation of a government that rushes to take the necessary measures and reforms,” he said. Prime Minister Saad Hariri resigned on October 29, two week into nationwide protests demanding an overhaul of Lebanon’s entire political class. Diab’s designation on Thursday was met with dismay. Protesters who say he has the support of Hizbullah rallied and blockaded roads with burning car tyres to protest his nomination. Over the past two months, the Lebanese pound, officially pegged to the US dollar, has lost around 30 percent on the black market, while many companies have slashed wages and laid off staff. Diab himself suggested a timeframe of four to six weeks after consultations were due to begin on Saturday.
Diab at the end of consultations: We will form a mini government of independent experts as soon as possible; Dar AlFatwa’s visit will be after the government formation
NNA/December 21/2019
Prime Minister-designate in charge of forming the new government, Hassan Diab, announced at the end of the non-binding parliamentary consultations today, that he would work to “form a mini government comprised of independent specialists.””The prime minister is the one who forms the government, and I will not apologize,” he said. “Hassan Diab is a Lebanese citizen who loves his country and wants nothing for himself, but wishes to play a role in this difficult stage with the participation of all parties who have expressed their willingness to cooperate,” vowed the PM-designate. “The time for action has come, and in this delicate and sensitive stage we need every effort possible,” he emphasized, adding that “in light of the useful advice I have heard from the blocs and parliament members, we will work to form a government as soon as possible.”Responding to a question, Diab said: “I agree with all that is voiced by the popular movement in terms of forming a government of independent specialists and clean figures, who would seriously work on urgent files, especially the economic dossiers.”On his visit to Dar Al-Fatwa, the PM-designate announced that it would be in “due time”, and then specified that it would be “following the government formation.”
Bassil after meeting Diab: We need clean and honest ministers
NNA/December 21/2019
Caretaker Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Minister Gebran Bassil stressed Saturday on the need for “clean and honest” ministers, known for their good merit and competence, to be part of the next government.
Speaking on behalf of the “Strong Lebanon” Parliamentary Bloc after meeting with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, Bassil said: “We did not make any demands to the PM-designate…What we are asking for is the availability of elements of success and effectiveness for the new government.”“This is the government of all Lebanese, not against anyone,” Bassil reassured, adding, “The issue of our participation is not important, the important thing is for this government to succeed and that we all contribute to its success.”
Hariri’s Press Office: Rebuttal of Al-Liwaa
NNA/December 21/2019
The Press Office of Caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri, has issued the following: “Al-Liwaa” newspaper issued today a report alleging “a complete settlement between caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri and the Shiite duo that ended with the designation of Dr. Hassan Diab and the non-designation by the Future bloc of Ambassador Nawaf Salam” and other things attributed to the alleged settlement. The Press Office confirms that everything stated in the report is incorrect and consists of analyses and predictions, and that the only thing that has been agreed upon between Prime Minister Hariri and the Shiite duo is to work by all means to prevent sedition and protect civil peace.”
Makhzoumi: It is not possible to facilitate the affairs of the Lebanese without a government
NNA/December 21/2019
After meeting with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab this evening, MP Fouad Makhzoumi stressed that “the goal is to facilitate the affairs of the Lebanese, and of course we know that this cannot be feasible without a government.””Our objection was due to the fact that we did not hear of a clear and frank program and rescue project prior to the parliamentary consultations, and therefore, we did not name a prime minister,” Makhzoumi said. “We are awaiting the proposed program,” he added. Makhzoumi hoped that the new Prime Minister would succeed in addressing all the issues at stake, most prominently in combatting corruption and implementing a rescue plan.
Salam says every person keen on preserving his homeland will not place obstacles
NNA/December 21/2019
Former Prime Minister Tamam Salam stressed Saturday that every Lebanese keen on preserving his homeland will not place any obstacles. “We voice our position and our opinion, taking into account the most important factor, which is the street. We hope that the street’s expression of its dissatisfaction or anger will not disturb the civil peace in the country nor target the army and security forces,” Salam underscored. His words came following his meeting today with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, within the framework of the non-binding consultations prior to forming the new government. Salam indicated that the binding consultations will take place, stating that he has no personal demand other than that of all the Lebanese, which is “to stop the deterioration, malpractice and mismanagement” prevailing in the country. He hoped for a suitable way out through forming a government that can carry the heavy weight, and be at the level of the aspirations of every citizen sincere to his country. “Today, we are in the context of the binding consultations. I would like to say that we are still in the midst of huge challenges and in the midst of an uncomfortable situation in the country, especially since a basic and large team does not agree to what is happening and has clearly expressed that,” added Salam. He noted that the peaceful demonstration is correct, while criticizing yesterday’s witnessed events which he deemed “harmful”.”
Mountain Guarantee Bloc expresses readiness to aid the PM-designate to succeed in his mission and meet the demands of the Lebanese people
NNA/December 21/2019
Members of the “Mountain Guarantee” Parliamentary Bloc, led by MP Talal Arslan, met this afternoon with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, whereby they expressed their full readiness to provide any assistance needed to ensure the success of his mission, within the framework that meets the demands of the Lebanese people. “We wished the PM-designate success in forming the government, and we hoped that this circumstance would be one that imposes complete national unity in the country, for the prevailing economic and financial situation is not a circumstantial stalemate condition, and does not entail only group of Lebanese citizens…Hence, everyone is required to strive so we can put a limit to the collapse that has occurred, and which might have huge repercussions on the social, economic and financial levels, shouldered by the entire Lebanese,” Arslan said on emerging.
He hoped that the new government would “meet the requirements of the civil movement in the country, which reflect our sufferings as Lebanese in general, namely in combatting corruption and the corrupt and approving the reform paper, which was previously agreed upon,” he added.
“The delicate phase that Lebanon has reached requires a rescue policy, par excellence,” underlined Arslan.
Armenian Bloc: We will participate in the government according to its form
NNA/December 21/2019
MP Agog Pakradounian announced, following the meeting of the Armenian Deputies Bloc with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab this afternoon, that they will participate in the next government “according to its form.”He added: “The Bloc informed Diab of the need to form a government as soon as possible, and to pave the way for economic and social solutions to break the current impasse.”
Demerjian: We count on the wisdom of the PMdesignate to bring in specialists who respect the law
NNA/December 21/2019
Following his meeting with the Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab over the new government formation, Deputy Eddy Demerjian said that hopes are pinned on the wisdom of the PM-designate to bring in specialists who set their sights on the law and respect its proper implementation. “There is no salvation for Lebanon except through implementing and respecting the laws,” Demerjian emphasized.
He stressed before the PM-designate that “the social, financial and educational situation cannot bear any waiting period, because the whole economy is threatened.”Demerjian hoped that the new PM would accord immediate attention to the issue of justice implementation, so as to put an end to the selective unjust actions taking place in the country. Additionaly, he urged the PM-designate to rapidly intervene with the banking sector to ensure that the principle of free economy, enshrined in the constitution and laws, is not disrupted and that depositors’ rights are well-preserved.
Adwan after meeting with Diab: We do not have any demands as a Party; we are interested in a government of specialists
NNA/December 21/2019
Members of the “Strong Republic” Parliamentary Bloc met today with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, within the context of the non-binding consultations to form the new government.
Following the meeting, MP George Adwan spoke on behalf of his colleagues, saying: “The Lebanese Forces Party has no demands as a party. Rather, we are interested in a government of specialists who enjoy high morals and transparency and who are independent, meaning that their decision is not party-driven.”
Ferzli after meeting Diab: We called for a reform government
NNA/December 21/2019
Deputy House Speaker Elie Ferzli met today with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, following which he indicated that talks centered on the next cabinet, saying: “We called for a government that takes into account the demands that have long been echoed, and whose program implements the needed reforms.”Ferzli hoped that the new government would be formed the soonest possible away from any shallow obstacles. “I also insisted on deepening dialogue, again and again, with Prime Minister Saad Hariri to take matters in the right direction,” Ferzli added. We are looking forward to an effective government of specialists,” he emphasized. “We insist that the Prime Minister-designate exerts all required efforts to reach a common logic and a mutual relationship with the parliamentary blocs, for this is the duty of the PM-designate even if they [blocs] do not participate in the parliamentary consultations,” Ferzli corroborated.
Kataeb Bloc says the only solution today lies in early parliamentary elections
NNA/December 21/2019
Kataeb Party Chief, MP Sami Gemayel, announced today on behalf of his Bloc members, following their meeting with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, that the sole solution at this stage is through holding early parliamentary elections. “We have reiterated our position to the PM-designate, and we consider that there is a total estrangement between the largest part of the Lebanese people who have joined the uprising for the past 60 days, and the political forces who did not wish to hear their voices, which has served to widen the rift between the constitutional institutions and the people,” said Gemayel. “It is critical when the state is on one side while the people are on the other side. Unfortunately, there is a team that still imposes its will on the Lebanese people, and still wants, after facing their uprising in the street and trying to abort it on several occasions, to continue to impose its will through constitutional institutions. This is something we reject, and this path is wrong and will lead to more crises,” he underlined. Consequently, Gemayel affirmed his Party’s “full solidarity with the people’s uprising,” vowing to “continue together the struggle towards achieving real change.”
Development and Liberation Bloc after meeting Diab: For a rescue emergency government
NNA/December 21/2019
Prime Minister-designate, Hassan Diab, met on Saturday with members of the “Development and Liberation” Parliamentary Bloc, within the context of the non-binding consultations for forming the new government. On emerging, the Bloc’s Secretary-General, MP Anwar El-Khalil, stressed that “all efforts should be focused on forming a rescue emergency government” to help the country out of its suffocating economic, financial, social and banking crisis. El-Khalil highlighted the need for a cabinet that includes all parties in the country, calling on the PM-designate to also seek the representation of the civil movement which has become a necessity, so the latter would be a partner in the comprehensive rescue operation. “There are basic matters that the PM-designate should be concerned with, such as fighting corruption,” he added, noting that “combatting corruption begins with the process of implementing laws.”
“We wished the Prime Minister-designate all success in reaching the aspired goals,” said El-Khalil, noting that talks during the meeting did not dwell on any portfolio request, but merely focused on the exchange of views and perspectives on various dossiers.
Raad says government will not be confrontational
NNA/December 21/2019
“The more the government includes the participation of political counterparts, the more successful it will be,” Loyalty to the Resistance Parliamentary Bloc Head, Mohammad Raad, said after the meeting with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab today.
He added: “We do not want a confrontational government or a “one-sided government.”
Jisr says Future Bloc will not participate in government
NNA/December 21/2019
MP Samir al-Jisr announced on Saturday after the Future Bloc’s meeting with Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab, that the Future Bloc will not participate in the new government, whether directly or indirectly.
“We hope that it would be composed of independent specialists,” al-Jisr said. “We consider that forming the cabinet of independent specialists can rebuild confidence between people and the authority, and we believe that this is the desire of all people, not just those who are in the civil movement,” he underlined. MP Jisr hoped that the PM-designate would form the new government in less time than he had declared; especially that it would be backed by “one-color” so there is no reason for any delay in its formation, as he explained.
Berri insists on including all parties in cabinet after meeting with Diab
NNA/December 21/2019
“I discussed with the Prime Minister-designate the government’s framework, in terms of its nature, size and distribution of portfolios, and I confirmed the program, especially with regard to fighting corruption and working on developing economic and financial issues,” House Speaker Nabih Berri said after meeting Prime Minister-designate Hassan Diab this morning. Berri stressed the importance of representing all parliamentary blocs in the next government, in addition to the members of the civil movement activists.
Geagea wishes ‘success’ to new government
NNA/December 21/2019
“We don’t want anything from the government, and the Lebanese Forces will not be part of it, yet we hope it will succeed and be productive,” LF Party Leader Samir Geagea said Saturday after meeting with US Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, David Hale.
He added: “The international community has bad experiences with Lebanon and therefore, will not contribute a single penny if it is not sure that the money will reach the Lebanese people.””We must save the country’s social and economic situation,” Geagea concluded.
Al-Rahi: We pray for the success of the PM-designate’s mission
NNA/December 21/2019
“We pray for the success of the new Prime Minister’s mission in forming the new government,” said Maronite Patriarch, Cardinal Mar Beshara Boutros al-Rahi, as he presided over this evening’s prayers in Bkiriki marking the holy season. “We call on politicians to remove obstacles and difficulties that stand in the PM-designate’s way, because people are tired and can no longer hear the politicians whose interests have brought the country to the bottom, politically, economically and financially,” said the Patriarch.
“Therefore, we pray for the Prime Minister-designate to form the government as soon as possible, and for it to gain confidence, and we appeal to politicians to put the interests of Lebanon and its people above all personal, factional, sectarian, or partisan considerations,” al-Rahi underlined. Meanwhile, the Patriarch regretted “the recent events in Beirut,” saying that “the right to opinion expression in a peaceful manner is sacred, but it is unacceptable to hit the army and security forces with stones.”
“We pray for the army and security forces that are carrying out their huge responsibilities patiently and enduringly, in maintaining security and preserving the squares and the freedom of movement on the roads,” said al-Rahi.
Bassil Meets Hale at His Residence
Naharnet/December 21/2019
Caretaker Foreign Minister Jebran Bassil on Saturday held talks with visiting U.S. Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, David Hale, at his residence in al-Bayyada. Reports said Bassil invited the U.S. envoy for dinner. Hale had earlier in the day met with Lebanese Forces chief Samir Geagea in Maarab. On Friday he met with President Michel Aoun, Speaker Nabih Berri and caretaker PM Saad Hariri. Hale had said that Washington was ready to help — provided Lebanon forms a new government marked by “good governance and freedom from corruption.”
S&P Rates Lebanon at CCC/C with Negative Outlook
Agence France Presse/Naharnet/December 21/2019
International ratings agency Standard & Poor’s confirmed Lebanon’s rating at CCC/C with negative outlook for the country’s economy, reports said Saturday. The agency stated that “Lebanon may eventually face difficult political options regarding monetary and banking systems in the future.” It pointed out that “the dangers of the prolonged political vacuum increase the ambiguity over the policies,” noting that “the system of power-sharing based on religion in Lebanon can delay any political solution regarding the formation of the government.”“Standard and Poor’s,” noted that “potential reforms may not be sufficient to find a fundamental solution to the great financial and economic pressures.”
Scuffles continue in Lebanon between Hariri supporters and security forces
The Associated Press, Beirut/Saturday, 21 December 2019
On Friday night, the Lebanese army used tear gas to disperse hundreds of supporters of the outgoing Prime Minister, Saad Hariri, protesting the assignment of the new Prime Minister, Hassan Diab, who is supported by Hezbollah. The clashes between the army and the demonstrators took place in the Corniche of Mazraa, in the, Beirut. Scuffles on the major avenue in Beirut intensified after Sunnis who apparently support Hariri closed it to protest Diab’s nomination. When the army worked on opening the road in Beirut’s western Mazraa neighborhood, the protesters hurled stones and fire crackers at troops and riot policemen, injuring at least seven soldiers, the Lebanese army said. The scuffles had begun on Friday morning when protesters first closed the avenue in Mazraa where Hariri enjoys wide support. Hours after the avenue was reopened, protesters closed it again leading to the intense scuffles that lasted until shortly before midnight. Outgoing Interior Minister Raya El Hassan, a member of Hariri’s Future Movement, issued a statement urging protesters to leave the streets “to avoid dangers and strife.” The protesters had earlier blocked the main highway linking Beirut with southern Lebanon with burning tires, causing a miles-long traffic jam. The army opened the road briefly in the town of Naameh before protesters closed it again with flaming tires. The road closures in Beirut and Naameh were carried out by protesters angered by what they said was Hezbollah and its allies deciding who takes the country’s top Sunni post. Hezbollah has backed Hariri for prime minister from the start, but they differed over the shape of the new government. “I ask (protesters) to give us a chance to form an exceptional government” that can work on resolving the country’s many problems, accumulated over the past 30 years, Diab said.
It was not immediately clear if the riots that broke out in Beirut will affect Diab’s consultations with members of parliament scheduled for Saturday in preparation for the formation of the Cabinet. Diab faces huge challenges in trying to form a consensual government that would also satisfy protesters. Demonstrators have been on the streets since mid-October, seeking to sweep away an entire political class they deem as corrupt.
Clashes Renew between Army, Mustaqbal Supporters in Corniche al-Mazraa
Naharnet/December 21/2019
Fresh clashes erupted Friday evening between the army and Mustaqbal Movement supporters in Beirut’s Corniche al-Mazraa area. The confrontation erupted after troops reopened a key highway in the area. The protesters then retreated to the area’s internal streets and started hurling stones and firecrackers at the soldiers. They also started burning tires. The army responded by firing tear gas and was chasing the pro-Mustaqbal protesters. The road had been blocked since morning and minor scuffles had erupted in the afternoon. An army statement said seven soldiers were injured in the afternoon confrontation after protesters pelted them with stones. The army said the protesters sought to empty a truckload of rocks and sand to block the road but were prevented by the military. Clashes ensued afterwards which resulted in the injuries. The Mustaqbal supporters are protesting the appointment of Hassan Diab as PM-designate.
Titles For The Latest Lebanese LCCC English analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on December 21-22/2019
The International Republican Institute understands the issues in Lebanon well/John Hajjar/Face Book/December 21/2019
Samir Geagea despite everything remains for me the most credible current political leader/Roger Bejjani//December 21/2019
New Lebanon PM meets with parliamentarians on road ahead/Associated Press/December 21/2019
Hezbollah-backed PM-designate faces backlash from Sunnis/Samar Kadi/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
Naming of prime minister-designate adds to Lebanon unrest/Simon Speakman Cordall/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
Beirut Christmas carolling comes with a revolutionary twist/Samar Kadi/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
The Latest Lebanese LCCC English analysis & editorials from miscellaneous sources published on December 21-22/2019
The International Republican Institute understands the issues in Lebanon well
John Hajjar/Face Book/December 21/2019
The International Republican Institute understands the issues in Lebanon well. The need to protect the protestors and ensure US aid helps them and not our enemies is paramount.
Dr.Walid Phares/December 19 at 10:44 PM
I had a good meeting at the International Republican Institute IRI headquarters in Washington DC today with the Middle East team, and John Hajjar of the AMCD regarding policies towards Lebanon. We discussed the US position regarding the Lebanese protests, Hezbollah, the newly appointed PM, the Lebanese Army, and US Aid. The Administration’s officials dealing with the Lebanon file are focusing on the most appropriate steps to be taken in the near and medium futures.
My suggested priority is the protection of the protesters, who are the only factor that can move the country toward change at this point. Everything else will depend on the willingness of the “Hirak” to continue its peaceful efforts. Short of which, Lebanon will fall back into the pre October 17 mode, which had lasted for 30 years or so.
Samir Geagea despite everything remains for me the most credible current political leader
Roger Bejjani//December 21/2019
Samir Geagea despite everything remains for me the most credible current political leader. He acts like a man of state without being. He has a sense of public responsibility. He tries to contain populism as much as possible in front of the most populists and cheap party in Lebanon’s history.
However, he has made 7 DRAMATIC MISTAKES IN THE LAST 4 years.
1. He joined the President’s theory “strong and representative” in a republic of the parliamentary system. The President in such a regime must be a judge and guardian of the constitution. The very idea of a representative President (leader of a political party) is a breach of the spirit of the constitution.
2. He ran for the presidential election with a program! A great mistake thus challenging the constitution.
3. the vile agreements of me3rab. Although Aoun would have been elected to wear with or without the fl, this agreement on a cult basis that developed into (Non-Fair) Power-sharing has turned out to be a disaster. Without this agreement, aoun would have been elected with the membership (sooner or later of mustaqbal) without the vote fl (6 MPS).
4. He turned his back on his natural allies of March 14, promising mountains and wonders with the orange idiots. (although he was the last of the tenor to leave on March 14).
5. The vote of the electoral law that already guaranteed a parliamentary majority to hizbollah on paper. This law would have been voted without the fl. Why vote for this hybrid and hezbollahi law?
6. Participation in government post parliamentary elections. Knowing that the government will be controlled by hizbollah, why do it? The place des fl should have been the lead of the political opposition.
7. Abstention to nominate hariri on 18 December 2019. If he had done so hariri would have been nominated with more than 70 votes. He is said to have removed the Prime Minister’s card from hizbollah and bassil. In the event that hariri has joined the concept of a national salvation cabinet of independent, it would have been stopped by Aoun / hezb. What would have reinforced the opposition around hariri, FL, kataebs etc…. The 1 Prime Minister nominated cannot be challenged, this card would have been in our hands.
With 7 BIG MISTAKES IN 4 years, Samir, who has the gift of the organization, should rethink the policy of the fl. Unfortunately I don’t see any other person able to take over this party.
New Lebanon PM meets with parliamentarians on road ahead
Associated Press/December 21/2019
BEIRUT: Lebanon’s new prime minister held consultations Saturday with parliamentary blocs in which they discussed the shape of the future government and said afterward that legislators all had one concern: To get the country out of its “strangling” economic crisis.
Hassan Diab, a university professor and former education minister, will have to steer Lebanon out of its worst economic and financial crisis in decades. He’s also taking office against the backdrop of ongoing nationwide protests against the country’s ruling elite.
“Lebanon is in the intensive care unit and needs efforts” by all sides, from political groups to protesters, Diab said.
Consultations began a day after scuffles broke out in Beirut and other areas between supporters of outgoing prime minister Saad Hariri and Lebanese troops and riot police. The ex-premier’s supporters were protesting Diab’s nomination. At least seven soldiers were injured.
Diab told reporters later that all members of parliament encouraged him to form a Cabinet “as soon as possible.” Cabinets usually take months to form in Lebanon because of bargaining between rival groups.
Diab said he hopes to form a government of about 20 ministers made up of independents and technocrats within few weeks. “It’s time to work and we ask God to make us successful.”He added that the situation in Lebanon cannot stand any delays amid its worst economic and financial crisis since the end of the 1975-90 civil war.
Lebanese banks have imposed unprecedented capital controls in recent weeks. Thousands have lost their jobs and the economy is expected to contract in 2020. Diab began his meetings Saturday at Parliament with Speaker Nabih Berri, then held talks with former prime ministers, including caretaker premier Hariri. He later met with blocs at the legislature.
Militant Hezbollah and its allies had previously insisted that a new government consist of politicians and experts but on Saturday, Diab said “all parties agree with me regarding a government made up of independents and experts, including Hezbollah.”
Legislator Paula Yacoubian, who backs the protest movement, said Diab told her “the government will be fully made up of independents and that he will step down if there is going to be members of the state’s political parties.”She added: “I heard very nice talk similar to what the people have been demanding.”
The protesters have been demanding a government that does not include members of political parties whom they blame for widespread corruption. Diab said he will meet with the protesters in the coming days without elaborating.
Earlier on Saturday, Hariri cautioned supporters after meeting Diab against violent protests, saying: “The army is ours and police forces are for all Lebanese.”Shortly before sunset Saturday, scores of protesters including Hariri supporters, closed two major intersections in Beirut demanding that Diab step aside, saying he failed to win wide support from Sunni legislators. Saturday’s protests were peaceful unlike those of the night before when stones and firecrackers were hurled at security forces.
The new prime minister won a majority of lawmakers’ votes after receiving backing from powerful Hezbollah and its allies, which have a majority of seats in parliament.
However, he lacks the support of major Sunni figures, including the largest Sunni party headed by Hariri. That’s particularly problematic for Diab, who, as a Sunni, doesn’t have the backing of his own community. And under Lebanon’s sectarian power-sharing agreement, the prime minister must be Sunni.
The head of Hezbollah’s 12-member bloc, Mohammad Raad, said the group wants a government that preserves what the Lebanese have achieved in “victories during the confrontation with the Israeli enemy and to maintain our national sovereignty, our maritime (oil and gas) wealth and land and to prevent the enemy from undermining its sovereignty and the national dignity.”
A lawmaker from the bloc led by the Shiite Amal group — headed by parliament speaker Berri — said the incoming government should focus on fighting corruption.
“It should be an emergency government that works on solving the economic, financial, social and banking crisis,” said Anwar al-Khalil after the meeting with Diab.
Samir al-Jisr of Hariri’s bloc said they will not take part in Diab’s government. Hezbollah’s ally, Gebran Bassil, who heads the largest bloc in parliament, said the future government “is not Hezbollah’s Cabinet but of all Lebanese and it is not against anyone.”
Michel Moawad, a harsh critic of the militant group, said Diab told him the new government will not be controlled by “Hezbollah and will not be confrontational.”
Hezbollah had backed Hariri for prime minister from the start, but the group differed with him over the shape of the new government.
Lebanon’s sustained, leaderless protests erupted in mid-October, and forced Hariri’s resignation within days. But politicians were later unable to agree on a new prime minister. The ongoing protests and paralysis have worsened the economic crisis.
Hezbollah-backed PM-designate faces backlash from Sunnis
Samar Kadi/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
BEIRUT – The nomination of Hezbollah-backed Hassan Diab as prime minister-designate to form Lebanon’s so-called “salvation government” will unlikely help the debt-ridden country to overcome its worst socio-economic and financial crisis since the 1975-90 civil war.
Diab’s designation, which came after caretaker Prime Minister Saad Hariri pulled out of the race, was endorsed by a weak majority in parliament comprising Iran-backed Hezbollah and its allies, Shia Amal Movement and President Michel Aoun’s Christian Free Patriotic Movement.
Hariri’s Future Movement bloc did not nominate a candidate in the much-delayed consultations with the president. Other blocs nominated former Ambassador to the United Nations Nawaf Salam.
Analysts said Diab’s failure to secure a consensus, especially from his Sunni community at exceptionally difficult times, makes it more complicated for him to form an inclusive government.
“Today we have a mobilisation of the Sunni community,” said political analyst Johnny Mounayar. “Whether they like Saad Hariri or not, the Sunnis feel that they have been humiliated and marginalised by Diab’s appointment. The mood is very tense and might be a prelude to Sunni-Shia friction.”Under Lebanon’s sectarian-based political system the prime minister should come from the Sunni community and is usually backed by the community’s main leaders.
“Diab has been stamped in the Western media as Hezbollah’s candidate and his government, regardless of how many ‘technocrats’ it will include, will be regarded as a Hezbollah-dominated administration,” Mounayar said. “A government dominated by Hezbollah, which has been targeted by increasingly biting US sanctions, is unlikely to secure billions of dollars in frozen aid for which Lebanon is in bad need.”
“We are obviously heading towards a polarised government which will not gain any international support because the US-Iran talks have not matured yet and Lebanon will be part of any US-Iran deal. The West wants to make Iran pay a price in Lebanon, Iraq and Syria,” Mounayar added.
Diab, a 60-year-old professor at American University of Beirut largely unknown to the public, served as minister of education from 2011-14 in a government formed after Hezbollah brought down a previous Hariri cabinet. Following Diab’s appointment, protesters gathered in Beirut’s Martyrs’ Square, the epicentre of the protests, and cut off roads. They rejected Diab and cast him as part of the old class of politicians they are revolting against.
“I see the country is going to waste. With this kind of government, no one will deal with it, no Arab, no Europe and no US,” Saeb Hujrat, a protester in the square, told the Associated Press.
In his first public address, Diab, who described himself as an “independent,” said he would work quickly to form a government in consultations with all political parties and representatives of the protest movement.
He said he is committed to a reform plan and described the current situation as “critical and sensitive” requiring exceptional efforts and collaboration. A daunting task awaits Diab and his efforts to form a government will almost certainly hit snags in the deeply divided country, even if Hezbollah and its allies sought to facilitate his mission, journalist Amin Kammourieh said.
“His (Diab’s) appointment could be a test,” Kammourieh said. “If (economic and political) pressures at home and from the international community exacerbated, Hezbollah and its allies might reconsider Diab’s eligibility or they would go for a unilateral government and take all the challenges that come with it.”
Visiting US Under-Secretary of State for Political Affairs David Hale encouraged Lebanese politicians to commit to the necessary reforms that can lead to a stable, prosperous and secure country.
“It’s time to put aside partisan interests and act in the national interest,” Hale said, adding the 2-month-old anti-government protests reflected the Lebanese people’s “longstanding and legitimate demands for economic and institutional reform, better governance and an end to endemic corruption.”
Demonstrators of all sectarian backgrounds have been in the streets every day since October 17 to demand the removal of the entire political leadership, seen as corrupt and incompetent.
Pierre Issa, secretary-general of the National Bloc party, which is participating in the protest movement, said protesters are mostly unhappy with Diab’s appointment and would continue demonstrating.
“We fear Diab might form a cosmetic cabinet of experts who are effectively controlled by political parties and this won’t solve the crisis,” Issa said.
Naming of prime minister-designate adds to Lebanon unrest
Simon Speakman Cordall/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
TUNIS – With unrest continuing across Lebanon, the naming of not widely known former minister Hassan Diab as prime minister-designate could open a new chapter in the fraught relations between the government and the country’s increasingly agitated population.
Anti-government demonstrators poured into central Beirut, protesting Diab being chosen for the post soon after the decision was announced. Across Lebanon, the Daily Star reported, roads were blocked as protesters rejected the former education minister’s selection.
For several weeks, protesters called for replacing Lebanon’s confessional system of government with a technocratic one. This would preclude parties representing the countries’ various sects from government.
While those demands were echoed among many senior politicians, the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), the Amal Movement and Iran-backed Hezbollah were insistent that any government include a mix of technocrats and politicians. Popular anger was initially triggered by a series of small events, including a proposed tax on the WhatsApp messaging service, it “morphed quickly into protesters demanding a drastic overhaul of the country’s political system,” said Emily Hawthorne, a MENA analyst at risk consultancy Stratfor. “That is much easier said than done in Lebanon, where a complicated confessional system of governance in some ways predates even the modern country’s founding and was reinforced after the civil war’s end in 1990. The entrenched system is trying to defend itself against political reforms that risk eroding their power with sectarian constituencies,” she said.
Diab’s backing by the Shia Hezbollah and Amal, as well as their largest Christian ally, the FPM, could prove problematic. His lack of support from Lebanon’s main Sunni bloc is unlikely to help him form a new government or secure the Western backing that Lebanon desperately needs.
The severity of Lebanon’s financial circumstances is difficult to overstate. The confessional system of government, in which roles and ministries are allocated by sect, has become overwhelmed by corruption and little of the country’s infrastructure is functional.
The Lebanese pound has fallen to one-third of its official rate while banks impose tight capital controls. Across Lebanon, companies are cutting jobs and squeezing salaries.
“A government with a Hezbollah-backed prime minister would be even less likely to secure support from the Gulf countries… and might also potentially reduce the chances of Lebanon getting support from the [International Monetary Fund] if the US raises concerns,” Jason Tuvey, a senior emerging markets economist at Capital Economics, told Reuters.
The increasingly sectarian nature of the violence in the streets continues, something Diab’s appointment is unlikely to ease.
On December 16, hundreds of men on motorbikes crowded Beirut’s streets, carrying flags of Shia groups as they chanted, “Shia, Shia,” setting tyres on fire, throwing stones at security forces and setting cars ablaze, witnesses said.
The men, reportedly incensed by a video criticising Amal officials, including parliament Speaker Nabih Berry and religious symbols such as Imam Ali, attempted to break through a security cordon around a makeshift campsite erected by anti-government protesters. Security services used tear gas to push them back. The latest violence came after an especially brutal mid-December weekend in which 40 people were injured after police intervened to separate Amal and Hezbollah supporters from attacking protesters in central Beirut. Violence, however, escalated and police resorted to rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons in an attempt to regain control of Beirut’s city centre.
“From the start, there has always been a concern that the protests could either turn sectarian, violent or both,” said Mouna Yacoubian, a senior adviser at the United States Institute of Peace.
“Indeed, the fact that the protests have still remained relatively peaceful is remarkable in and of itself given Lebanon’s history of civil war and conflict,” Yacoubian said. “The current unrest is largely the result of sectarian actors instigating greater violence by attempting to inject a sectarian element into the protests and by resorting to more aggressive tactics, e.g. throwing stones, in confrontation with security forces.”Little of the violence appears to be directed by any of the parties’ leadership. While Amal and Hezbollah were initially critical of the anti-government protests, their position has become more accommodating, raising questions about the motivations behind the violence. “What is more concerning is the prospect that some of the violence is being generated from the grass roots and that party and religious leaders have less control over these elements,” Yacoubian said.
Beirut Christmas carolling comes with a revolutionary twist
Samar Kadi/The Arab Weekly/December 22/2019
BEIRUT – While the drums of the popular anti-government rebellion were beating in Beirut’s streets during violent clashes in recent days, Christmas carols and Muslim Sufi hymns were sung in churches for the annual Beirut Chants Festival.
The pre-Christmas event, with 28 free concerts over December 1-23, offered the public a much-needed break from the pressures of the political and socio-economic crisis gripping Lebanon as attendees indulged in peaceful and spiritual, yet revolutionary, musical performances.
“We believe that music should be free for all, as we believe in tolerance and coexistence among different cultures and religions because we believe in unity,” said Micheline Abi Samra, founder of Beirut Chants Festival.
“Definitely the intercultural Islamic-Christian aspect is always present in the festival, and every year it is more pronounced and more sophisticated. Quranic chants are being chanted in churches at the same time as Christmas carols to encourage tolerance and mutual acceptance and understanding and to get to know each other better,” Abi Samra said.
Since the festival was founded 12 years ago, Lebanon has united each December for concerts in that very spirit, using culture and music to spread a message of hope for the country. This year it is even more pronounced with the anti-government rebellion that united protesters across Lebanon’s religions and regions. The concerts draw thousands of people to churches around Beirut every night for one or two hours of music — some classical, some religious and some unexpected, such as the revolutionary and nationalistic songs that marked some of this year’s concerts.
“This year, it is a miracle that we are still going on. I myself cannot believe it when I look at the churches and I see that every single night crowds are more numerous with different ages, different backgrounds and yet they are one when they listen to beautiful music,” Abi Samra said.
Beirut Chants is not just about bringing culture to the masses and bonding over beautiful music; it is also about voicing a powerful message.
One of the most acclaimed concerts was a religious event that combined Quranic singing by Muslim cleric Sheikh Ahmad Hawili and soprano Ghada Shbeir at the Saint Joseph Church in downtown Beirut.
Sheikh Hawili, a Lebanese Sufi singer, and Shbeir, who has a doctorate in Syriac chants, the oldest form of Christian singing, enchanted the audience.
“I found it unique and mesmerising,” said audience member Randa Imad. “The fact that there are a cleric and a vocalist singing lyrics from the Quran and the Bible, sometimes as a duo or alternately, was fascinating. The church was packed. The atmosphere was great. They even placed seats in the alleys to accommodate the crowd.”
Beirut Chants began in 2007 when Abi Samra said she wanted to make use of the beautifully renovated churches in Beirut and thought to bring life to those spaces to “feel that the community is participating and living the Christmas spirit in a beautiful way.”
The revolutionary mood prevailing in Lebanon affected this year’s festival, intertwining with the Christmas spirit.
Members of the rebellious young generation seeking change while expressing their attachment to Lebanon were well-served by Lebanese musician, composer and pianist Guy Manoukian, accompanying al Fayha choir, a group of 100 singers from all denominations. National and patriotic songs inflamed the Assembly Hall at the American University of Beirut (AUB), where the concert took place. “What I lived in that particular concert I haven’t lived for 12 years since Beirut Chants started. The national mood and the ambiance were already there… Emotions were high. People sang along and cried,” Abi Samra said. The performance by an ensemble from the Balamand University Choir and soprano Reem Deeb at the Assembly Hall was another highlight of the festival. Deeb presented a surprise song that sounded as a perfect contribution to the revolutionary situation. Some of the lyrics translate as follows: “In times of pain and poverty, Beirut cries for people’s hunger and people’s eyes weep for people’s thirst, yet, the Christmas spirit gives people back their dignity and faith.”An AUB student who attended the performance said the surprise anthem was “a beautiful addition to the festival, especially in times of hopelessness.”The people who gave standing ovations at the concerts understood the message of love and tolerance and the big hope that the differences in the Lebanese society are its strengths, Abi Samra said. “We should work on more projects that make us all one nation,” she added. Lebanon has been rocked by unprecedented popular protests over official mismanagement and corruption since October 17.
