Maronite Patriarch Bechara Al-Rahi stated that "the celebration at Bkerke for the beatification of Patriarch Stefan Douaihy was unprecedented and symbolized a sign of hope during the current circumstances in Lebanon, reminding the Lebanese: 'Do not be afraid,' so they may endure their suffering." In a special interview with MTV, he said, "The beatification of Douaihy is a call for the Lebanese to be patient and to reflect on Lebanon, its institutions, and the presidency. There is no reason that convinces me of the absence of a president except for hidden unwholesome intentions against Lebanon's interests."
Al-Rahi asked, "In which constitution is there an agreement on a president? Why have there been no electoral sessions for over a year?" He emphasized that "the president is the only one authorized to negotiate, while the presidents of parliament and government are not authorized to negotiate on behalf of Lebanon."
He pointed out that "there is exclusion of the Maronites' role in the state, particularly by preventing the election of a president; there is no constitutional legitimacy for the parliament and the government in the absence of a president. Moreover, there is exclusion of Christians, and a lack of Maronites and Christians in the public administration, which undermines our pluralistic system. However, there is no fear for the Christian presence in Lebanon; what is happening is a weakening, not an eradication, of their existence."
Al-Rahi added: "Christians are an essential element that cannot be marginalized in the state, and this is protected in the texts, but if the exclusion persists, it poses a danger to the Christian presence in Lebanon."
