Naharnet

Aoun Slams Attempt to 'Deprive Christians of Appointing Their Representatives'

Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun on Monday warned that there is an attempt to “usurp the rights of Christians,” amid controversy over the presidency and the appointment of senior security and military officials.

“Today we're witnessing an attempt to usurp the rights of Christians through depriving them of appointing their representatives in state institutions,” said Aoun during a ceremony organized by the FPM's finance committee.

“This elimination of the strong Christian posts that can consolidate the status of Christians is aimed at eliminating the Christian leaders,” Aoun added.

Himself a presidential candidate, the FPM leader is insisting on the election of a so-called “strong” president.

The FPM has also threatened to boycott cabinet sessions if the agenda is not topped with the appointment of high-ranking security and military officials.

Aoun has been lobbying for political consensus on the appointment of Commando Regiment chief Brig. Gen. Chamel Roukoz, his son-in-law, as army chief as part of a package for the appointment of other top security officers.

Roukoz's tenure ends in October while the term of army commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji expires at the end of September.

Baabda Palace has been vacant since the term of President Michel Suleiman ended in May last year.

The MPs of Aoun's Change and Reform bloc in addition to Hizbullah and other lawmakers from the March 8 alliance have been boycotting the presidential polls over their call for a prior agreement on a consensual candidate.

Y.R.


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