Joelle Bou Abboud, a member of the political bureau of the Lebanese Kataeb Party, discussed the results of the municipal elections in Metn, noting that the outcomes largely met the party's expectations. The Kataeb Party marked significant victories across several towns in the region, an achievement Bou Abboud attributed to a shift in local political dynamics.

"The mood in Metn has changed," Bou Abboud said in an interview on Télé Liban. "What was once a stronghold for implementing Syrian occupation plans is now embracing a new outlook on political, developmental, and municipal work."

She noted that this evolution represents a broader transformation in the region’s approach to governance.

However, Bou Abboud also observed a decline in voter turnout compared to previous elections. The drop, she pointed out, amounted to a decrease of roughly 10% between the 2016 and 2025 municipal elections. One of the main reasons for this decline, she said, was the large number of young Lebanese voters living abroad, who were unable to participate in the elections.

Bou Abboud expressed particular concern over the northern Metn district, highlighting the region’s struggle with underdevelopment, especially along the coastline, which has suffered from waste accumulation. She praised Nicole Gemayel, the mayor of Bikfaya, for her successful waste recycling initiatives and emphasized the importance of expanding such projects throughout Metn.

"We have a clear vision for northern Metn and are committed to addressing the issues that matter most to the region," she said. The Kataeb Party is also eager to contest the presidency of the Union of Municipalities of Metn, she added.

Reflecting on the overall results in Metn, Jounieh, and Jbeil, Bou Abboud expressed satisfaction with the party's performance in the municipal and electoral elections. She acknowledged the distinctions between municipal and parliamentary elections, particularly the differences in electoral laws. Despite these differences, Bou Abboud noted that the municipal elections revealed a strong desire for change, especially among the youth.

"What is significant is that women are increasingly becoming involved in municipal and developmental work," she said, calling for the reactivation of Lebanon's 30% gender quota law. She also advocated for the implementation of strict proportional representation to ensure diversity and balance in municipal councils.

Bou Abboud also praised the involvement of the Lebanese government in the electoral process, particularly the close follow-up by the president, and the ministers of interior and justice.

"Their involvement helped create a sense of reassurance and trust among the people, which encouraged greater voter participation," she said.

She stressed the need for administrative reforms, such as standardized voter lists, to ensure voters are free from external pressures on election day.

In a separate discussion, Bou Abboud reiterated her strong opposition to the idea of Lebanon returning to war.

"There is no benefit to Lebanon in returning to conflict," she stated emphatically.

Bou Abboud also reaffirmed the Kataeb Party’s continued diplomatic efforts to press for Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territories, stressing that this is a process that requires time and patience.

"While Israel continues to violate the ceasefire agreement, Hezbollah has not yet disarmed," she added.

Turning to Lebanon’s security situation, Bou Abboud emphasized the critical role of the Lebanese Army in defending the country’s borders and combating threats like ISIS.

"The Lebanese Army is the only force responsible for defending Lebanon’s borders. No other party should be involved in this responsibility," she said.

On the situation in Syria, Bou Abboud made it clear that Lebanon must remain focused on its own internal stability.

"What happens in Syria should stay in Syria," she said, urging Lebanon to protect its borders and strengthen national unity.

"The situation in Syria is dangerous and could lead to major changes within the country, but we must avoid becoming entangled in it. Instead, we must focus on strengthening Lebanon from within through national unity."