Two notable events, both in form and substance, have drawn considerable attention as the presidential election approaches and just days before the end of President Michel Aoun's term, amidst the shifting political and party alignments in Lebanon and the region. The first event was the visit of MP Melhem Riachi to Clemenceau, sent by the president of the Lebanese Forces party, Samir Geagea, where he met with the head of the Progressive Socialist Party, Walid Jumblatt, and several members of the "Democratic Gathering." The second event was the wide participation of most forces that were part of the March 14 coalition in a memorial mass for the martyrdom of Dani Chamoun and his family.
Regarding the meeting in Clemenceau, Riachi's visit goes beyond just a "positive response" following the recent visit of Democratic Gathering member MP Wael Abou Faour to Maarab, affirming a restoration of this relationship that has been significantly damaged for a while due to a statement from MP Strida Geagea that criticized Jumblatt's positions. This led to the Socialist Party and the Democratic Gathering boycotting the memorial mass for the "Forces" martyrs for the first time since Jumblatt began participating in this occasion.
As for what transpired at Jumblatt's residence, sources indicated to "An-Nahar" that Riachi conveyed a message of goodwill and care for the relationship between the two parties to the head of the Mont-Liban region, particularly stressing the continued support for the candidacy of MP Michel Moawad in the presidential election, and establishing communication and coordination between the two regarding this election to avoid the pitfalls encountered during Michel Aoun's election. This opens a new chapter for understanding and harmony between the Socialist Party and the "Forces," whether in terms of the presidential elections or facing the upcoming phase, which is fraught with challenges, developments, and various other obligations. It has been reported that the agreement between them was clear on proceeding with voting for Moawad, and should any other option arise or require adjustments, their understanding must remain robust with other political and sovereign forces.
