U.S.: Lebanon’s Democratic Gains Threatened by Cabinet that Reflects Will of External Interests
U.S. Ambassador Maura Connelly has said that Premier Najib Miqati’s cabinet “appears to reflect less the will of the people and more the will of external interests.”
During a reception held at the embassy to bid farewell to Public Affairs Officer Ryan Gliha on Wednesday, Connelly said: “There is a danger that Lebanon will lose many of its hard-fought gains on the level of democratic participation and transparency.”
“Lebanon took a monumental step in 2005 when the Lebanese people put an end to the Syrian occupation of this country, but the lack of change and reform in the intervening years has disappointed many of those who gathered in Martyrs’ Square six years ago,” she said.
Connelly called for reform in Lebanon and its regional neighbors, saying
“the people of the region need to open more channels to hold their government accountable to its obligations to respond to their legitimate needs and desires.”
“Extremist elements and terrorist groups” are competing for influence, she said. “So this is a critical moment, and this is a test of leadership for all of us.”
over 13 years
Not beleving in HA's good intentions and in Aoun's talent doesn't mean I have to be March 14th. Unfortunately for the non-Chia part of the population the only smart politician in Lebanon is Nasrallah and he is the only one with a long-term vision. But like many Lebanese i object his ways, I don't share his views and i don't want him to build the country of my children on his own terms. So given the choice I will vote for March the 14th because even though they are not the smartest-and beleive me they is corruptions on all side: Berri, Miqati and co are not Meka's Sharifs- i know that with them I will be able to vote again. So better the thieves than the assassins.
Easy to say after Obama sold March 14 to Bashar Assad.
You did let us down for the interest of Israel is to have a strong Syria that can control Lebanon and HA. The only reason Joumblat changed side is because their was no substance in your support, e.g. May 2007. Where were you then? Any US administration will always look after Israel's interest first.