Controversial MP Sami Gemayel to Become Head of Kataeb in July despite Uproar
Kataeb chief Amin Gemayel will reportedly step down as head of his party, clearing the way for his son MP Sami Gemayel to succeed him despite objections by some members.
According to al-Akhbar newspaper published on Tuesday, some members warned that Sami's leadership of the Kataeb puts the party at enormous risks.
The daily said that Sami, who was the coordinator of the Kataeb Party's Central Committee, resigned from his post as a first step to lead the party.
Amin Gemayel is expected to announce his decision during the party's upcoming conference in July, which Kataeb is compelled to hold every four years in accordance to its by-laws.
However, several members of the party's poltiburo reject Amin's decision.
MP Nadim Gemayel, the son of former president-elect Bachir Gemayel (Amin's brother), told al-Akhbar newspaper, that they “will hold onto their stance in order to postpone the matter or avert it.”
Sami is known for his controversial stances and fiery statements that caused some trouble among the ranks of the Kataeb party.
Nadim pointed out that a “large number of the Kataeb members reject such a step as those who support Amin have fears over their positions in the future and others deem that the circumstances don't allow such move.”
“Every person knows his capabilities. It's not a battle between Sami and Nadim,” the young MP added.
Nadim expressed belief that “Sami's leadership to the party wouldn't safeguard the institution.”
However, Nadim told al-Akhbar that he is ready to cooperate with Sami “if he was positive and didn't exclude us from decision-making.”
“I am not against Sami,” he stressed.
Labor Minister Sejaan Qazzi, who is loyal to the Kataeb party, said that he supports Sami to head the party.
“He has the necessary requirements to lead the party,” the minister remarked.
Qazzi, however, noted that Amin didn't tackle the matter with the party members, pointing out it's a democratic process.
“If several reject Sami, then no one can impose him.”
H.K.
G.K.
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