The head of the Progressive Socialist Party, Walid Jumblatt, stated on Monday that it is essential to find a compromise candidate for the presidency with an economic, social, and political program that is outside the known system. He noted that "there are good names proposed, but the best name is that of a man who understands the law and the regional and international data, which is Shibli Malat."
In an interview with "LBCI," Jumblatt expressed that he has no problem if MP Gibran Bassil takes his place, stating, "I do not want to be accused of being a 'guardian' on the presidency issue. However, the important thing is to reach an agreement on a president." He pointed out that Bassil and Lebanese Forces leader Samir Geagea are vetoing names, while the Shiite duo has other calculations. He mentioned that if they are not convinced by the candidates, the Democratic Gathering may vote with a blank ballot.
Regarding the presidential file, he rejected any trade-off between the presidency and the premiership, as it would violate constitutional principles. Jumblatt believes that Lebanon has fallen within the Iranian sphere, citing Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi's statements from Syria that support Lebanon's independence on one hand and resistance on the other, although he could have mentioned supporting a defensive strategy for state-building.
Jumblatt acknowledged the Arab identity of Minister Sleiman Frangieh but noted that the party is not Arab, and Hezbollah is not at the forefront of defending the Arab cause. He pointed out that when the Arab project collapses, Hezbollah has another project.
Concerning the return of Syrian refugees, Jumblatt highlighted that Arabs have failed themselves and the Syrian people, leaving them behind, and that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has triumphed over his people. He also urged media institutions to tour certain areas in Syria to assess the possibility of refugee returns. He stated that "full coordination with international bodies is required, including tracking new births in Lebanon, and distinguishing between refugees and workers," reiterating his suggestion to house Syrian refugees in designated camps along the border between the two countries.
He confirmed that he would not visit Syria, saying: "I will not visit Damascus, and I do not believe Tamer needs to meet Bashar al-Assad." Jumblatt expressed his disbelief in postponing municipal elections, calling for a revision of the municipal election law to allow for direct election of mayors by the public. Regarding the Beirut municipality, he suggested establishing a higher municipal council for Beirut with elected districts.
On the issue of the Beirut port, he questioned: "Why has the discussion about the 'Beirut Port' stopped?" He believes that interests have converged between Hezbollah and major powers or between the Syrian regime and Hezbollah. Jumblatt hoped for Saudi Arabia to pay attention to social institutions, especially Sunni ones.
