The MPs Melhem Khalaf and Najat Aoun Saliba continue their sit-in inside the Parliament hall since yesterday, Thursday, after the 11th session for electing a president was adjourned. They demand the convening of consecutive sessions until a president is elected. MP Najat Aoun Saliba stated to MTV from inside the Parliament: "This is not a sit-in but a constitutional right for us to remain in the hall until a president for the republic is elected. We are not sending a message to anyone; we are exercising our right and fulfilling our duties entrusted to us by the people. We only ask the MPs to do their jobs, and we will stay in the Parliament." In response to a question, Saliba added, "We do not impose any names on them; the situation is not about challenge or forcing anything on anyone."
On the other hand, MP Melhem Khalaf said, "We are against the obstructive approach, and we represent a new approach in this country. We confirm to the Lebanese people the necessity of not losing hope; this is a country that should live, and we are here with the will of the people." He continued, "Our demand is to keep the sessions open until a president of the republic is elected. We feel as though democracy is collapsing in Lebanon, and we have a responsibility today to respect the democratic process."
The two deputies shared a video from the Parliament this morning, Friday, informing the Lebanese people about the continuation of their sit-in. Saliba remarked, "A new day and new hope." For his part, Khalaf said, "A happy day for all of Lebanon," wishing that "this serious step leads us to a country where living is pleasant."
