One of the characteristics of the presidential elections in Lebanon is that they pass by on the surface of political life unnoticed, without having the slightest role in shedding light on the fundamental challenges facing the country. The upcoming presidential elections lack any electoral programs and discussions, which are supposed to accompany elections and determine priorities and propose solutions.
There are no campaigns and no official candidates. The constitutional time frame for the election of the Lebanese president started on March 25, and no candidate has yet officially presented his candidacy for office in accordance with democratic rules and customs. On the contrary, the more the election date approaches, the more cautious potential candidates are, as if they are awaiting a sign from abroad. They avoid any media appearance, and if they ever do appear in the media they smooth the edges and remain careful not to make any mistake that might undermine their image as a candidate of consensus. In other words, the closer we get to election day, the more paralyzed political action in the country becomes and the discussions on contentious issues decrease. Thus, this pivotal moment of democratic life is slipping right through the hands of Lebanon.
