Rifi Promises to Stop Murderers from 'Killing the Truth'

Justice Minister Ashraf Rifi vowed on Monday on the 16th anniversary of the murder of four Lebanese judges to stop perpetrators from “killing the truth” in the series of assassinations that targeted Lebanon in the past years.

“We won't allow anyone to assassinate our martyrs again by killing the truth,” Rifi said at the Justice Palace of the southern city of Sidon.

“We are in conflict with outlaws, who are unfortunately hoisting slogans in defense of the nation,” he said.

He was referring to the series of killings and assassination attempts that targeted Lebanese officials and journalists since the murder of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri in February 2005.

“We won't rest until the killers of the judges receive their punishments,” Rifi said.

He also vowed to stop murderers from hitting the country’s stability and coexistence.

On June 8, 1999, Judges Hassan Othman, Walid Harmoush, Imad Shehab and Issam Bou Daher were at a trial at the old Justice Palace in Sidon when two perpetrators opened fire through the rear window of the courtroom and killed them.

Five others were injured in the attack.

“Justice is the guarantor for the state's existence,” said Rifi in his speech.

“It is time for the state to provide judges and Justice Palaces with more security,” he said.

He also hailed Lebanon's judges, saying the Lebanese have a huge confidence in them.

G.K.

M.T.