Egypt and Lebanon discuss solutions to Presidential vacancy

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty and his Lebanese counterpart, Abdullah Bou Habib, held a phone conversation to discuss the political developments in Lebanon, particularly in light of the upcoming parliamentary session aimed at electing a new president.

During the call, Abdelatty stressed the importance of intensive efforts by all active Lebanese national parties to reach a national consensus. He underscored that the solution to the presidential vacancy must be wholly Lebanese, free from external interference.

"It is crucial to end the political deadlock and secure a president who enjoys the broadest possible support," Abdelatty stated, calling for unity among Lebanon's political factions.

Uncertainty Surrounding January 9 Election

The Lebanese Parliament is scheduled to convene on January 9 to elect a new president, but doubts persist over whether the vote will actually take place. The ongoing political divisions have made it challenging to rally behind a single candidate, further delaying the resolution of the presidential vacuum.

One name frequently mentioned is Joseph Aoun, the commander-in-chief of the Lebanese Army. Known for his neutrality and strong leadership, he is seen as a potential candidate capable of garnering widespread support across Lebanon’s diverse political landscape.

Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, following the end of Michel Aoun’s term. The political stalemate has exacerbated the country’s economic crisis, leaving key decisions in limbo and undermining public confidence in the government.

Under Lebanon’s National Pact, the president must be a Maronite Christian, while the prime minister is a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of parliament is a Shia Muslim. 

This sectarian-based power-sharing agreement adds complexity to the electoral process, as consensus must be reached among Lebanon's deeply divided political and sectarian groups.