Aoun Only Serious Candidate for January Session

The Democratic Gathering bloc has become the first to officially declare its presidential candidate ahead of the election session set for January 9. This session may potentially conclude over two years of presidential vacancy.

On Wednesday, following a meeting, the Democratic Gathering bloc announced that its MPs would vote for Army chief Gen. Joseph Aoun on January 9.

Former Progressive Socialist Party leader Walid Jumblat, who attended the meeting, had previously met with Speaker Nabih Berri and tried to persuade him to support Aoun. However, these efforts, as well as attempts to convince Free Patriotic Movement leader Jebran Bassil, were unsuccessful.

According to MTV, Berri’s reservations about Aoun stem from his “sharp” character and “sectarian approach,” rather than his ties to the U.S.

Joseph Aoun, considered a strong candidate for the presidency, faces the challenge of enforcing the Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire, a task heavily dependent on his troops’ deployment in the south. Despite difficulties, Aoun is seen as a figure of personal integrity and national dedication, respected for his leadership in driving out the Islamic State from the Syrian border region. He has led the army since 2017, with his mandate extended twice, and maintains good relations across the political spectrum, including with Hezbollah and foreign countries.

Although various politicians and parties have suggested Aoun as a presidential candidate, only the Democratic Gathering bloc has officially endorsed him for the January 9 session. Opposition blocs have considered other candidates like Michel Mouawad, Jihad Azour, Salah Honein, Neemat Frem, and Nassif Hitti, with Azour being their latest official candidate. Hezbollah and Amal have consistently backed Suleiman Franjieh.

The opposition remains undecided on its candidate for January 9. Meanwhile, Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea has been in contact with Berri and expressed his willingness to run for president if he gains enough support. Kataeb leader Sami Gemayel, who supports Aoun, has also indicated a potential vote for Geagea.

In addition to Aoun, other potential candidates include ex-ambassador to the Vatican George Khoury, MP Farid Haykal al-Khazen, General Security chief Maj. Gen. Elias Bayssari, ex-minister Ziad Baroud, Jean-Louis Cardahi, and banker Samir Assaf, with varying support from different factions and countries.

Despite accusations of inflexibility, Hezbollah and Amal, known as the Shiite Duo, have called for dialogue and a consensus president. Franjieh, still running for the presidency, expressed openness to any suitable candidate who can build the state, emphasizing the need for agreement with allies like Hezbollah.