Shortly after the polls closed across Northern Lebanon and Akkar governorates in Lebanon's second round of municipal and mayoral elections, Prime Minister Nawaf Salam visited the Interior Ministry's operations room to receive updates on the voting day and to follow up on the vote counting process. 

Salam praised the swift response of security forces and the army in addressing complaints and issues that arose throughout the day, while acknowledging the difficulties faced during the election process.

"We are all aware that there were many complaints," Salam said. "However, what’s most important is the quick and serious handling of these issues by the security forces and the army."

Salam expressed regret over the delays in polling stations, hoping that such issues would not occur in the upcoming round of elections in Beirut and the Bekaa.

Looking ahead, Salam emphasized the importance of learning from the challenges of the day and ensuring better management of future elections.

"We’re learning from the issues that occurred today, and the process will be improved in Beirut, the Bekaa, and the south," he said.

The prime minister also highlighted the need to expose and hold accountable those responsible for electoral bribery.

"It’s crucial to uncover the identities of those behind electoral bribery and make sure they face consequences," he noted.

One of the key focuses of Salam’s remarks was the importance of holding municipal and local elections, which he sees as essential for the democratic process. He stressed the right of the people to hold their elected officials accountable, especially since many have been in office for the past nine years.

"Renewing local governance is essential, as municipalities are the cornerstone of development."

Salam also noted that efforts would continue to ensure the smooth conduct of elections in the south, emphasizing that both political and diplomatic channels would be used to support the process. 

"I cannot provide guarantees, but we will maintain our efforts to ensure smooth elections."