Baby steps: Lebanon's municipal elections inspire hope
Lebanon's parliament members are working on a new law they think will result in legislative elections and a new president.
BEIRUT — Despite all the doubts shrouding the municipal elections in Lebanon following a second extension of the parliament term and in light of the Lebanese political crisis, elections began May 8 and are set to be held over four consecutive Sundays ending May 29 and covering all Lebanese provinces.
These elections are bringing democratic life back to Lebanon, which has endured a presidential vacancy since May 2014 and the obstruction of official institutions in light of the political crisis and sharp divide in the country since former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri was assassinated in 2005.
Also, the Council of Ministers is experiencing major disagreements over several issues, including national security, and has almost been disbanded on several occasions.
The parliament hasn't held legislative sessions since November, as the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) and the Lebanese Forces Party have refused to attend any legislative session whose agenda does not include a new electoral law. Lebanon’s Muslims and Christians are both calling for a new electoral law that would give them fair and equal representation.
