Statement from the Governor of Beirut Regarding the Removal of Images and Advertisements

The Public Relations Department of the Beirut Municipality stated in a statement that the Governor of Beirut, Mervan Aboud, issued a memorandum numbered 6920/2023 concerning the removal of images, advertisements, logos, and unauthorized pictures wherever they exist in the city of Beirut. The statement included: "Some individuals have taken to hanging pictures and banners related to political and party affiliations, while some individuals, institutions, and companies are seizing the opportunity to publish their advertisements and posters throughout the capital, on light poles, in public properties, and on building walls, in violation of the law and without prior permits, which distorts the civilizational image of the capital. To make Beirut a city free of divisive slogans that lead to division among its citizens, we hope that all concerned parties adhere to the applicable laws and regulations, and submit the necessary permit requests as per the procedures, or remove these images, advertisements, and logos wherever found; otherwise, we will regrettably be compelled to remove them at their expense and responsibility. It is noted that the Cleaning Department of the Beirut Municipality has been tasked to assist the Fire and Guard brigades in removing all these slogans, images, flags, and advertisements spread across various streets of the capital."