Supporters of the "Free Patriotic Movement" are preparing to accompany President Michel Aoun's departure from Baabda Palace after the end of his term. This will involve popular movements that extend from the presidential palace to the general's headquarters in Rabieh. Meanwhile, the "Movement" is working on multiple fronts to organize these popular protests, with particular attention focusing on the anniversary of October 13.
Supporters are anticipating this occasion to organize mass movements to assert their presence as a popular force on the ground, especially after the disappointing parliamentary elections, which reflected a decline in the Movement’s base against their Christian rivals. They aim to convey a single message: that the "Movement" exists and will remain despite the end of Aoun's term, in light of predictions indicating a waning influence.
The Vice President of the "Free Patriotic Movement" for Administrative Affairs, Martine Najem Ktaily, indicates that "Aoun's supporters and the Movement's members are eager to accompany Aoun's exit from Baabda to express their loyalty to the achievements made by the President and in response to the campaigns that targeted him throughout his term." In a statement to "An-Nahar," she points out that the "Free Patriotic Movement" has not planned any organizational movements, focusing instead on the October 13 festival. If any other movements are to be organized, they will be announced, but they will definitely support the public's movement on the ground.
In conclusion, Ktaily expects that the supporters will head to the presidential palace to accompany Aoun to Rabieh, and that supporters will also go to Rabieh to meet him there.
Sources from the presidential palace mention that "the procedures for Aoun's departure from the palace are under discussion and preparation, but the scenarios have not yet been finalized, as this depends on various factors, including the election of a new president or not, which necessitates handover formalities, and other factors related to the weather." However, the sources confirm to "An-Nahar" that "official procedures will take place in this context, and Aoun will receive an official farewell, along with arrangements and honors, although there is no final vision yet."
Regarding popular movements, the sources state that "the approach of Aoun's supporters to Baabda Palace requires coordination with the palace’s departments, which has not yet occurred, as we have not been informed about any movements planned in this context."
