Qahwaji Says Political Disputes Forced Decisions to Avert Vacuum
Army Commander Gen. Jean Qahwaji said on Wednesday criticized the political disputes among the rival parties, which pressed politicians to take decisions in order to avoid vacuum.
In his Order of the Day to mark the 68th Army Day, Qahwaji stressed that “there wouldn't have been any fear of vacuum if the political life went on normally and disputes didn't govern ties between parties.”
He reiterated that the army is holding onto the Lebanese constitution and the National Pact principles, which is related to Lebanon's sovereignty, maintaining democracy and respecting international and Arab conventions.
“What happened recently should motivate us all to end the political and personal disputes that terminate our constitutional values and the Taif accord,” Qahwaji added.
He pointed out that the army is committed to maintain the “democratic legacy” in Lebanon by preserving the institutions.
“We are committed to the law and will not surpass it,” the army chief said.
Qahwaji's term, which ends in September when he turns 60, has been the center of disputes among politicians.
Most of the political parties voiced support to the extension decision but Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun rejects any attempts to extend his term, describing it as "illegal."
almost 11 years
sadly das, odds are he WILL be our next president..the army cheif post is THE stepping stone to the presidency... sad.. but true
almost 11 years
General Qahwaji just use your powers & implement military rule due to our dysfunctional so called Government . The time is ripe organise the elections with the military as the guardian to maintain peace & order.
almost 11 years
military men should not comment on politics. their uniform demands that.
almost 11 years
He has the full two years to do it & like what you said clean these bastards of so called politicians up take away their Armani suits & replace them with prison uniforms ! Totally agree with you & I'm the majority of Lebanese woul also agree. ! Hope it does happen !
almost 11 years
I don't know about that youngheart, he seems to be implying that he will abide by the constitution and so be reappointed. Or not--who knows? Lebanese politics ey?--, but he certainly makes that implication clear.
almost 11 years
*won't be reappointed
almost 11 years
Phoenix, sunnis trust less and less the army,the justice,ect... Even schools and universities are corrupted now , put urself in their position...
Bassita General don't be upset. Chamel Roukoz will be army chief the day you become president: NEVER!