Mustaqbal Open to Discuss Any Law that Doesn't Harm 'Coexistence', Reiterates Rejection of Orthodox Proposal
إقرأ هذا الخبر بالعربية
Al-Mustaqbal bloc confirmed on Tuesday its willingness to discuss any draft electoral laws that does not contradict with co-existence and with the constitutional values, restating its rejection of the Orthodox proposal.
"We cannot deal with some communities' concerns by adopting a law that would trigger new worries,” the bloc said in a released statement after its weekly meeting at the Center House.
The lawmakers explained their position towards the Orthodox Gathering's draft electoral law, saying it “it encourages extremism, besides being unconstitutional and contrary to co-existence”.
The MPs added: “Proportional representation is also ruled out as Hizbullah's weapon will threaten minorities in regions where it is the dominant party,” adding that it would thus prevent them from truly voicing out their positions.
"Elections must be held on time,” the MPs stressed.
The Orthodox Gathering draft law calls for each sect to elect its own lawmakers.
The proposal enjoys the support of the Christian four-party committee comprised of the Phalange Party, Free Patriotic Movement, Marada Movement, and Lebanese Forces.
The draft law was criticized by President Michel Suleiman, Premier Najib Miqati, Progressive Socialist Party leader MP Walid Jumblat, the Mustaqbal Movement, March 14 Independent Christian leaders and several other figures.
Commenting on the assault on Youth and Sports Minister Faisal Karami's convoy in the northern city of Tripoli, al-Mustaqbal statement said: “We call again for taking control of all security matters in the north”.
It also restated its demand of announcing Tripoli an arm-free region, hoping it would be a trend to be followed on all Lebanese territories.
Friday's assault erupted after gunmen from the neighborhood of Bab al-Tabbaneh demanding the release of Islamists held in Roumieh prison clashed with Karami's bodyguards and then tossed a grenade at the convoy, setting a four-wheeler on fire.
22 January 2013, 22:34
20
How can any Christian leader be against the Orthodox law??
The Future Movement is showing its true colors...keep their power at the expense of Christian MPs.
I am with March 14; however, these guys are disgusting!
23 January 2013, 08:20
11
Al Mustaqbal will not adopt a law that will free 20-plus Christian MP's from its clutches. We all know this so please stop hiding behind your fingers.
23 January 2013, 11:26
01
eff... those inefficient politicians who always make a fuss at each elections to find the best law that would suit their ambitions while they forget about the REAL issues of the citizens!
eff them ALL along with their blind supporters repeating their stupidities!
23 January 2013, 23:34
00
mustakbal in the 90's and until 2009 had the law in such a way that for example the christian in beirut didn't even bother going to vote . Hariri and company had it all , it was a sure win . Now things are changing , i am sorry Mustakbal you want the voices of the christian , you are going to have to work for it . You have christian member of the Mustakbla , let them represent you in the election , if your idea are laic and non sectarian , if you idea represent lebanese , you will win but if not my friends you will fail . Whats so hard to accept?
