The Grand Shiite Mufti Sheikh Ahmad Qabalan delivered the Friday sermon at Imam Hussein Mosque in Bourj al-Barajneh, discussing the qualities that should be present in the President of the Republic. He stated: "We want a President with experience and national expertise, moderation, and national openness to political forces, who has friendships and rescue capabilities, and is open to the region and the world—a personality that believes in civil peace and Islamic-Christian partnership, and the defensive formula that consists of the army, the people, and the resistance. This President should push for the implementation of the Taif Agreement and the abolition of political sectarianism according to national phases, and accomplish an electoral law based on Lebanon as a single electoral district. We do not want an unknown President because international interference exists at the heart of the decisive centers of power in the country, and we will not allow the Americanization of the Presidential position, nor will we accept the deadly vacuum except through dialogue for a national settlement."
Qabalan addressed "those concerned" by saying: "I want to remind you that Lebanon was liberated through the largest national epic, an unparalleled victory led by the resistance, and playing with Lebanese sovereignty is never a trivial matter. Presenting UNIFIL as a force above Lebanese sovereignty and interests is unacceptable and has no value on the ground. Those who do this can steep their decisions in the Security Council and drink them, as Israel used to do and still does. The freedom of movement for UNIFIL is only possible within the limits of sovereignty and national interest; excessive chanting is of no benefit. Our people in the south are a pillar of security and safety, a strong shield, and a firm support. The attempt by the Security Council to present UNIFIL as a confronting force is a loss for UNIFIL. We will not accept any alternative to the national formula for national defense. Remember that the area of 1701 is Lebanese land and part of Lebanese sovereignty; the time for violating Lebanese sovereignty has ended. What is happening in the Security Council does not concern us; what concerns us is Lebanon's sovereignty, its national interests, and the dignity of our people."
