Pope Francis has issued an urgent appeal to Lebanese politicians to elect a president and restore normalcy to the country’s governing institutions after a two-year leadership void.
Speaking to the faithful in Saint Peter’s Square following the Sunday Angelus prayer, the Pope emphasized the need for immediate action to address Lebanon’s political paralysis.
“I address an urgent invitation to all Lebanese politicians to elect the president of the republic immediately,” the pontiff said.
He stressed the importance of Lebanon’s institutions functioning effectively to implement reforms and maintain the nation’s legacy of peaceful coexistence among various religious groups.
The call from Pope Francis comes as Lebanese parliamentary speaker Nabih Berri announced that a presidential election will take place on January 9, 2025.
This will mark a crucial step in attempting to end a power vacuum that has persisted since former President Michel Aoun’s term ended in October 2022.
Despite the scheduled vote, Lebanon’s political landscape remains deeply divided. Neither the Iran-backed Hezbollah bloc nor its rivals hold the majority required to elect a president, leaving the country in a prolonged stalemate.
The absence of a president has paralyzed Lebanon’s government, exacerbating a severe economic crisis that has left much of the population in poverty.
Essential reforms, including those needed to secure international financial aid, have stalled due to the political gridlock.
The Pope’s intervention underscores the urgency of resolving the crisis, with the Vatican emphasizing Lebanon’s unique role as a beacon of interfaith harmony in the region.
The January 9 election is seen as a pivotal opportunity to restore stability and chart a path forward for the troubled nation.
However, with deep divisions in parliament and no consensus candidate in sight, the outcome remains uncertain.
Pope Francis’s message is a reminder to Lebanese leaders of their responsibility to prioritize the nation’s welfare and address the pressing needs of its citizens.
Whether his call will inspire action or further underscore the deadlock remains to be seen.