Recently, we have witnessed assaults on candidates, especially independents. These attacks range from verbal to physical, and at times even escalate to violence, the use of weapons, and death threats. Such assaults violate the most basic rights of citizens, voters, and candidates in a country that is supposed to uphold freedoms. So, who protects them?
Former Interior Minister Ziad Baroud stated in an interview with MTV that "regardless of the candidate and their affiliation, if they submit their candidacy properly and adhere to the laws, no one has the right to attack them verbally, physically, or morally because elections and candidacies should be within the freedom of expression and the freedom of choice, which are constitutional rights."
He added, "If any candidate is harmed due to their candidacy or choices, the laws should be enforced, and there should be a point of reference for any candidate to file complaints regarding what they endure." He pointed out that there are administrative references, such as the Ministry of Interior—responsible for the electoral process—and the Elections Supervisory Authority as well as the judiciary. He remarked, "I believe most candidates who face these assaults do not file complaints, as they consider it futile due to a lack of trust. This is unfortunate." Since it is insufficient to only voice objections in the media when faced with an attack, measures must be taken and legal complaints filed.
Baroud confirmed, "In 2009, I would either transfer every complaint to the Public Prosecution or, at times, handle them directly. There is no doubt that the current Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi is doing all of this, though it may not be publicly announced."
Some candidates face indirect pressures that render them unable to confront the situation; however, the authorities respond depending on the nature of the aggression. According to Baroud, the judiciary investigates and may arrest the assailant if the incident is criminal or if there was physical aggression. In cases of verbal attacks (slander or defamation), the individual is referred to the Press Court, and the role of the Supervisory Authority comes into play if someone obstructs voters’ access.
What model is being presented before the elections?! Who ensures the safety of voters amid the ongoing unrest?! And what can we expect if the assailants win?! The answers to these questions could be painful if we are our own executioners.
Lara Abi Rafae - MTV
