Al-Nahar, Lebanon, Originally Posted in Arabic on November 20
Over seven decades have passed since we first declared the independence of our republic in 1943. Seven decades in which we have known many conflicts and struggles, but also many moments of strength, resilience and pride.
Unfortunately, this week marks the second Independence Day that we celebrate without a president.
Two years of a political vacuum have left our government barely functioning. Citizens are still not receiving the most basic services that they deserve. The parliament has been dismissed. Civil servants have not received their wages for months. And the trash continues piling in the streets.
Yes, I am well aware of the dangers posed by the situation in Syria; and I am also of the opinion that it is important we address the atrocities taking place across our border as soon as possible. But without consensus among us, the people of Lebanon, how could we ever stand united to fight our enemies?
Appointing a new president is the least our politicians can do. They must put their narrow political interests and sectarian divisions aside and work to restart the political system. It has been two sad Independence Days – and we surely don’t deserve another one.
The founders of this great country did not fight and sacrifice their lives for what we see today. They were passionate, and ideological, and determined. And most of all, they were free of foreign interests. – Naila Tawini