A number of protesters in Sidon organized a demonstration in front of the Serail to oppose the decision to extend the general mobilization without securing basic life necessities such as milk for children, food, medicine, and essential household supplies.
The National News Agency reported on an open letter read by Mohammed Al-Baba addressed to the Governor of the South, Mansour Daal, which affirmed the rejection of the extension of the mobilization without providing alternatives that enable people to endure. He stated, “We have come today carrying the burden of the pandemic and affliction to present to you a message that expresses our condition for you to convey to the Supreme Defense Council.” Al-Baba emphasized that extending the home confinement, which could last for many days or even months without securing basic life necessities, would be tantamount to announcing a collective execution of the majority of the population that is now living on daily bread.
Al-Baba added that the treasury has been devastated, deposits have evaporated, and the locusts of corruption have consumed everything, while the essential materials subsidized by tax money are either outside the borders or in the stores of mafias that are devouring our bodies and souls without ever satisfying their hunger.
He considered that neglect, carelessness, and a lack of urgency over the past five months, along with the failure of ministries and relevant agencies to prepare emergency plans and bolster protection, have contributed to the rapid spread of the pandemic.
Al-Baba declared his rejection of any extension that does not consider the demands of citizens and a scheduled organization for all sectors, saying: “We, the revolutionaries from the groups in the revolutionary square in Sidon, declare, in our name and in the name of all the squares of the October 17 revolution in all of Lebanon, our rejection of any extension that does not provide for several demands, including a gradual, organized and scheduled opening of all sectors two days a week for each sector, so citizens can secure at least a modest income based on the principle of 'bread for life' while following complete health guidelines.”
Al-Baba called for monitoring the disparities in the wholesale and retail prices of basic materials, as well as for transparency and accountability in distributing gifts and donations, especially following the scandals of Iraqi flour and Qatari field hospitals. He demanded accountability for those responsible for the neglect and indifference in not implementing guidelines in recent months, from both civilians and official employees, who have caused chaotic overcrowding in markets, restaurants, and parties, in addition to combating organized smuggling of supported materials out of the country.
He concluded his letter by stating: “Silence is no longer possible regarding those in positions of irresponsible authority. We will work to hold accountable and prosecute all laggards and careless individuals, and we refuse to die from disease, hunger, or neglect while they enjoy the billions that have been stolen from our money and taxes.”
The protesters began their march from the intersection at the Eliya traffic light towards the Sidon Serail, chanting and calling for their demands. The Supreme Defense Council had decided during its meeting at Baabda Palace, chaired by President Michel Aoun, to extend the complete lockdown until 5 AM on Monday, 8/2/2021, and instructed military and security agencies to strictly enforce the specified decision made under special approval.
