Source: Kataeb.org
Friday 29 November 2024 19:17:09
The Kataeb Political Bureau held an extraordinary meeting chaired by Party Leader Samy Gemayel. After discussing the latest developments regarding the ceasefire and the surrounding circumstances, the following statement was issued:
1. With the ceasefire in effect, the Kataeb Party salutes the fallen martyrs of the Lebanese Army, Civil Defense, medical teams, and journalists. The party extends heartfelt condolences to the Lebanese civilians who have lost loved ones and wishes a speedy recovery to the wounded, hoping that these will be the last sacrifices. Lebanon has endured enough tragedies and suffering, having paid a heavy price for external interests that do not concern it. It is time for Lebanon to focus on securing its own welfare.
2. With the ceasefire agreement now confirmed and approved by all parties involved in the conflict, including the Lebanese government and the sponsoring countries, the Kataeb Party believes Lebanon is at a historic juncture to build a true nation and state, governed by the constitution and laws, and no longer vulnerable to collapse at every crossroads.
3. The Lebanese now face the serious implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701, established in 2006, which could have been fully enforced without the need to pay the price through casualties, destruction, and the total collapse of institutions. Instead, Lebanon has been led into a new form of guardianship after a series of miscalculations and false bets.
4. The Kataeb Party emphasizes that, in light of all that has happened, Lebanon must return to the core principles of state-building and the foundations upon which the country was founded—a state of institutions, citizenship, freedom, peace, and prosperity. For this to happen, there are clear conditions and red lines that must not be crossed:
- No return to the existence of arms outside the control of the Lebanese Armed Forces.
- No return to the monopolization of the decision-making power on war and peace matters.
- No return to a mindset of patronage, coercion, and imposition.
5. The Political Bureau welcomes Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri's call for a presidential election session, although it comes late and at a heavy cost. The Bureau hopes that the intentions are sincere and the political will is present to ensure that the session results in the election of a president fit for the challenges ahead. The election process must adhere strictly to the Constitution, without manipulation and interpretations, and the same principle should apply to the formation of a new government, which should serve as an opportunity to restore the country’s institutions and infrastructure.
6. Lebanon now faces a real challenge to rise from the abyss brought about by past policies and senseless wars. It is the duty of all Lebanese, regardless of affiliation, sect, or denomination, to seize this moment, learn from past mistakes, and engage in a process of constructive self-reflection. Only Lebanon, as a united nation, can emerge victorious from this endeavor.