Al-Rahi Fears 'Imbalance' in Lebanese Components after Hariri’s Decision

W460

Maronite Patriarch Beshara al-Rahi said Wednesday he was surprised by ex-Prime Minister Saad Hariri’s decision.

“I wasn’t expecting it, neither did I expect that his decision would include al-Mustaqbal Movement,” he stated. “If Hariri had his reasons, why did his decision include the entire movement,” the Patriarch asked.

He considered that Hariri’s decision might create an imbalance in the Lebanese components, adding that he would have preferred if he hadn’t taken it.

He hoped for the Sunnis to know how to maintain their place in the country. “They are a main component of the Lebanese society,” he explained.

Al-Rahi spoke of Hariri with great affection. “He has a friendly character, and like his father he always chose moderation,” he said.

SourceNaharnet
Comments 1
Thumb chrisrushlau 26 January 2022, 21:01

"Balance" means Article 24, the Taef Accord, where Christians, so-called, get half of parliamentary seats. This is a key component in the well-oiled machine that is modern French Lebanon. al-Rahi is perhaps afraid that Lebanese Sunnis might join forces with Shias. But how does anybody know which religion someone belongs to? "If you were accused of being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?"