Kanaan: We must fulfill our duty on January 9
Grand Mufti of the Republic, Sheikh Abdel Latif Derian, on Thursday met with the Independent Parliamentary Consultative Gathering comprising Deputy Speaker, Elias Bou Saab, and MPs Ibrahim Kanaan, Alain Aoun, and Simon Abi Ramia.
MP Kanaan, speaking after the hour-long meeting, stated, We turn to this house and the Mufti, a national reference, for guidance during difficult times. After decades of destruction, instability, and disregard for the Taif Accord and UN Resolution 1701, we now have an exceptional opportunity to return to the constitution, elect a president, form a government, and restore institutions. This path aligns with constitutional legitimacy, respects international resolutions, and can rebuild trust in Lebanon locally and internationally.
The Mufti’s wisdom reinforces our faith in Lebanese unity, stability, and rejecting divisive populism. We remain hopeful that as MPs, we will fulfill our duty in the January 9 session to lift Lebanon from its ongoing crisis,” Kanaan added.
When asked about the growing number of presidential candidates, Kanaan stated, While everyone has the right to run, our focus should be on building consensus around a roadmap to rescue the nation. The priority is electing a president capable of restoring Lebanon’s sovereignty, upholding the constitution, and addressing national challenges with a clear vision.
Regarding his candidacy, Kanaan acknowledged his inclusion in a list proposed by Bkerki, adding, My bloc supports this approach, but the core issue is uniting behind a recovery plan and a president who inspires hope and leads Lebanon towards salvation.
On whether his bloc supports the candidacy of the Army Commander, Kanaan said, I won’t delve into political endorsements from this esteemed national house. Our position will be announced soon.
