Mustaqbal Open to Discuss Any Law that Doesn't Harm 'Coexistence', Reiterates Rejection of Orthodox Proposal
Al-Mustaqbal bloc confirmed on Tuesday its willingness to discuss any draft electoral laws that does not contradict with co-existence and with the constitutional values, restating its rejection of the Orthodox proposal.
"We cannot deal with some communities' concerns by adopting a law that would trigger new worries,” the bloc said in a released statement after its weekly meeting at the Center House.
The lawmakers explained their position towards the Orthodox Gathering's draft electoral law, saying it “it encourages extremism, besides being unconstitutional and contrary to co-existence”.
The MPs added: “Proportional representation is also ruled out as Hizbullah's weapon will threaten minorities in regions where it is the dominant party,” adding that it would thus prevent them from truly voicing out their positions.
"Elections must be held on time,” the MPs stressed.
The Orthodox Gathering draft law calls for each sect to elect its own lawmakers.
The proposal enjoys the support of the Christian four-party committee comprised of the Phalange Party, Free Patriotic Movement, Marada Movement, and Lebanese Forces.
The draft law was criticized by President Michel Suleiman, Premier Najib Miqati, Progressive Socialist Party leader MP Walid Jumblat, the Mustaqbal Movement, March 14 Independent Christian leaders and several other figures.
Commenting on the assault on Youth and Sports Minister Faisal Karami's convoy in the northern city of Tripoli, al-Mustaqbal statement said: “We call again for taking control of all security matters in the north”.
It also restated its demand of announcing Tripoli an arm-free region, hoping it would be a trend to be followed on all Lebanese territories.
Friday's assault erupted after gunmen from the neighborhood of Bab al-Tabbaneh demanding the release of Islamists held in Roumieh prison clashed with Karami's bodyguards and then tossed a grenade at the convoy, setting a four-wheeler on fire.
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