With the countdown to the end of President Michel Aoun's term on October 31 approaching, the Lebanese are watching how the "Free Patriotic Movement" will translate its previous announcement of a popular farewell for the "spiritual father" of the movement as he leaves the Baabda Palace "as honored and respected among his people and family," following his call for supporters, friends, and followers to "prepare to meet the memory and the event in affirmation of their commitment and love for the founding leader."
Accordingly, after addressing his engagements for the commemoration of October 13, including the last event taking place at "Forum de Beirut" at 4:30 PM today (Saturday), due to weather concerns causing the venue change from "Deir el Qala'a" in Beit Meri, the Movement is focusing on making the necessary arrangements for the scene of the "founding leader's" departure, which will take place on Sunday, October 30. It is noted that Aoun has repeatedly stated he would leave the Baabda Palace on the last day of his term, which is at midnight on October 31.
In anticipation, sources estimate that this scene will begin in the early hours of Sunday and continue throughout the day, reaching its peak in the evening. There are questions about whether the farewell procession from Baabda Palace to Rabieh will peak at midnight from Sunday to Monday, thus fulfilling Aoun's promise to complete his presidential term "until the last minute."
Sources from the Movement emphasize that "General Aoun has no connection to what his supporters will do, neither in terms of organization nor in any other aspects; rather, it is an initiative of the movement itself. Out of loyalty to his journey and appreciation for all he has done despite the slanders against him, this occasion will be commemorated with a grand festival to affirm that the movement will remain as long as General Aoun is present, and after him as well, because it is a movement of foundations and people more than just a journey of a leader."
