During the traditional Sunday mass, the cardinal lamented the lack of confidence of Lebanese politicians, among themselves, and in state institutions.

He went on to describe as “big shame” the position by some political figures and leaders who are expecting foreign name to occupy the presidency.

Al-Rahi appreciated the concern and encouragement of friendly countries which favor the presidential election process, after more than two years of power vacuum.

According to the highest authority of the Maronite Christian community, some figures are still hopeful of a postponement in the date set for the election of a president on January 9, which is 10 days away.

In this regard, he called for understanding the role of the next president and the importance of restoring trust among politicians, the State and its institutions.

He insisted on the urgency of building internal unity among all Lebanese, based on mutual love, loyalty and equality before the law; and implementing structural and institutional reforms agreed upon at the conferences in Paris, Rome and Brussels.

According to the patriarch, it is necessary to find such a president, force him to accept this difficult mission and surround him with the confidence of all politicians and the Lebanese people as a whole.

On November 28, the day after the ceasefire with Israel came into effect, Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri called for a session on January 9, to elect the next president of the Republic and gave a one-month deadline to reach a consensus among the legislative blocs.

Since the evening of October 31, 2022, Lebanon has been facing its fourth power vacuum after gaining independence, once Michel Aoun’s concluded his term as head of the State.

ied/oda/yma