Berri Warns: Elections in Danger due to Security Situation

Local Editor

Lebanese House Speaker Nabih Berri stressed Friday that the elections is in danger because of the security situation.

He further urged all rivals and all parties not stand idle "because the election date is approaching in a spring that is much similar to the Arab Spring or even hotter."

In an interview with "an-Nahar" Lebanese daily, Berri confirmed that he was at the forefront of politicians who understood the concerns of the Lebanese Christians and who did not stand against the Orthodox Gathering electoral law.

In parallel, Berri reiterated that he is with the worst law if the Lebanese agreed on it.
"My electoral proposal maintains the 26 historic districts and the provinces, whether 5 or 6," the top Lebanese official highlighted.

As for the Free Patriotic Movement pressures to call for a Parliamentary General Assembly's meeting to approve the Orthodox electoral law, Berri clarified that there are constitutional mechanism that we must respect.
"Once I fell that things are moving to vacuum, I'll call for a meeting," he emphasized.

In other remarks to al-Joumhoria daily, Berri assured that there is still place for hope to reach a consensus over the electoral law.
"Doors are still open for compatibility, but I cannot wait long," the Speaker said, and noted that " if I did not receive alternative proposals, then I would be compelled to invite the General Assembly for voting on the Orthodox electoral law."

He further stated: "Don't embarrass me to take this stance."

Source: Lebanese dailies, Translated and Edited by moqawama.org