Justice Minister Adel Nassar said Sunday that Lebanon’s municipal elections are not aimed at sending a message to the international community, but are instead a core exercise in democratic rights for the Lebanese people.

“Democracy is not a mere signal to the outside world, it’s rooted in the core logic of Lebanon as a country of democracy and freedoms,” Nassar said during a visit to the Ministry of Interior, as the third phase of local elections was underway in Beirut, the Bekaa Valley, and Baalbek-Hermel.

“We’re not holding elections to impress anyone abroad. We’re doing it because every citizen has the right to choose their representatives,” he added.

Nassar emphasized that the government’s primary responsibility is to its own people. “Each country is entitled to its own interpretation of what’s happening. But our obligation is to guarantee citizens their right to express themselves at the ballot box.”

Turning to the south, where electoral preparations have faced logistical and security hurdles, Nassar said all necessary preparations had been taken to ensure a smooth and safe voting process. He commended Interior Minister Ahmad Hajjar for handling the situation with professionalism.

“The Interior Minister is addressing every obstacle with technical precision,” Nassar said. “We fully support him. He’s carried the heaviest load in executing these elections. Every possible measure must be taken to protect voters, civil servants, and staff.”

On the security front, Nassar issued a sharp warning against celebratory gunfire or any attempts to disturb public order, vowing strict enforcement of the law.

“People’s lives are a red line,” he said. “There will be no room for political interference or backdoor deals on this issue. The law will be applied rigorously to maintain public safety and safeguard the electoral process.”