Strong Republic Bloc Warns Against Constitutional Violations

The "Strong Republic Bloc" held a press conference in the Parliament, addressing municipal elections and the current situation. Deputy Georges Okais, on behalf of the bloc, stated that "the extension of municipal terms is the third nail in the coffin of democracy, as the state of war experienced by our people in the south should not prevent Lebanese citizens from exercising their electoral rights. The government should have conducted elections in areas free from security tensions and postponed them in the southern regions." He warned the parliamentary majority poised for extension against the repercussions of violating the constitution, urging hesitant lawmakers to join them and boycott the session. He added that if the law is approved, they would treat it as unconstitutional and would challenge it in court. Okais noted that "this is the third extension, and each extension has its flimsy justifications, taking place despite the Interior Minister's announcement of the ability to conduct elections."