Lebanon's New President Elect: U.S.-Backed Army Chief Breaks Years Of Political Gridlock
After years of political gridlock, Lebanon has elected a new president, Michel Aoun, a U.S.-backed army chief. Aoun's election is a significant development for Lebanon, which has been plagued by political instability and economic problems for years. It is also a victory for the United States, which has been pushing for Aoun's election as part of its strategy to stabilize the region.
Aoun's Background and Qualifications
Michel Aoun is a retired Lebanese Army general and politician. He was born in 1935 in the village of Haret Hreik, in the Matn District of Mount Lebanon. Aoun is a Maronite Christian and a member of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM), a political party that he founded in 2005. Aoun has a long history of military and political service. He served in the Lebanese Army for over 30 years, and he was the commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces from 1984 to 1990. Aoun is also a member of the Lebanese Parliament, and he has served as Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The Election
Aoun was elected president on October 31, 2016, after 46 rounds of voting in the Lebanese Parliament. He received the support of 83 of the 128 members of parliament, which was enough to give him the two-thirds majority needed to win. Aoun's election was a surprise to many observers, who had expected the election to be deadlocked for months or even years. However, Aoun was able to secure the support of a number of different political factions, including Hezbollah, the Shia Muslim militant group that is backed by Iran.
Challenges Facing Aoun
Aoun faces a number of challenges as he takes office. Lebanon is a deeply divided country, and Aoun will need to find a way to bridge the sectarian divide that has plagued the country for decades. He will also need to address the country's economic problems, which include high unemployment and a large national debt. Aoun will also need to deal with the threat of terrorism, which is a major problem in Lebanon and the region.
Conclusion
The election of Michel Aoun as president of Lebanon is a significant development for the country. Aoun is a strong leader with a long history of military and political service. He faces a number of challenges as he takes office, but he is also well-positioned to lead Lebanon into a new era of peace and prosperity. The United States will be watching Aoun's presidency closely, and it will be hoping that he can help to stabilize Lebanon and the region.
Post a Comment