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The resurfacing of differences between the ruling majority and the opposition in Lebanon over the choice of a new president has stalled the country's much needed move away from its political deadlock.
The rift is mainly attributed to General Michel Aoun, a Christian opposition leader, himself a former army chief, who said he would back the majority-endorsed presidential candidate General Michel Sulaiman only if he holds office till 2009 instead of the full six-year term. This comes just days before Friday's scheduled meeting of parliament to approve General Sulaiman for the top post.
Such an announcement will potentially produce fatal disturbances and could anger the Lebanese Christian community who would feel they are being denied the position. As is known, Christians constitute a significant part of the population and any proposed change at this point could lead to further stalemate, which could spark conflict.
There is an urgent need to move forward with Lebanon's charter change, which would allow General Sulaiman to become the president. All factions from Lebanon must ensure the election of a new president in order to finally fill the vacuum created last month and overcome the lingering crisis. The alternative to this would further deepen sectarian divisions and could have irreparable consequences.
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