Kataeb MP Elias Hankache on Tuesday took part in a sit-in staged by the retired army veterans to protest against the draft 2019 state budget to be discussed in the Parliament session.

“It is illogical to derogate from your rights and the solution rests in not putting our hands into people’s pockets. You are the ones who defended us, shed out blood and sacrificed your lives for us,” Hankache said as he addressed veterans in Martyrs’ Square showing support to their demands.

“It should’ve been better for those who set up the budget to put an end to squandering and fight corruption instead,” he slammed.

“I am not here to score a political position but rather to confer impartially. This topic does not win or lose through politics. Our stance during today’s session will be with you and we will vote against the measures that affect your rights and that of your families,” Hankache stated ahead of the legislative session.

The Kataeb lawmaker was joined by MPs Paula Yaacoubian and Jean Talouzian in Martyrs' Square to support the veterans' demands.