Lebanon’s parliament has elected General Joseph Aoun as the country’s new president, effectively ending a two-year political vacuum. The election, held on January 9, 2025, concluded a prolonged period of political paralysis that began after the term of former President Michel Aoun ended in October 2022. General Aoun, who has led the Lebanese Armed Forces since 2017, secured 99 out of 128 votes in the second round of voting, surpassing the required majority.
Background and Election Details
Political Deadlock: Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, leading to a significant governance vacuum. The political impasse was exacerbated by deep divisions within the parliament, particularly between Hezbollah and its opponents, which hindered the election of a new president.
General Joseph Aoun’s Candidacy: General Aoun, 60, is recognized for his leadership of the Lebanese Armed Forces and is considered a unifying figure in Lebanon’s fragmented political landscape. His candidacy received strong support from both domestic and international stakeholders, including the United States, which views him as a stabilizing force amid Lebanon’s ongoing crises.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the election, Lebanon faces significant challenges:
Economic Crisis: The country is grappling with one of the worst financial crises in modern history, characterized by soaring inflation and widespread poverty.
Political Stability: The new president will need to navigate a deeply divided political environment to implement reforms and restore trust in state institutions.
International Relations: Securing international aid for reconstruction and development will be crucial for Lebanon’s recovery.
Summary of the news
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Lebanese Parliament elects General Joseph Aoun as President | * Date of Election: January 9, 2025. * General Joseph Aoun elected after 2-year deadlock. * 99 out of 128 votes in his favor. * Replaced Michel Aoun, whose term ended in October 2022. * Formerly head of Lebanese Armed Forces (since 2017). |
| Political Deadlock in Lebanon | * Lebanon lacked a president since October 2022. * Political impasse caused by deep divisions in parliament. * General Aoun viewed as a unifying figure. |
| Lebanese Armed Forces | * General Aoun led the Lebanese Armed Forces from 2017. * Seen as a stabilizing force in Lebanon’s fragmented politics. |
| Lebanon’s Economic Crisis | * Lebanon faces severe financial crisis with widespread poverty and inflation. |
| International Support | * Aoun’s election received support from international entities, including the United States, which views him as a stabilizing figure. |
| Lebanon’s Challenges Ahead | * Political stability and economic recovery remain significant challenges. |
| Previous President | * Michel Aoun: 2016–2022. * Country in political deadlock after his term ended. |
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