AUB Condemns Kataeb-SSNP Clash, Stressing 'Freedom of Speech for All'
The American University of Beirut slammed on Tuesday the clash that erupted on Monday between students affiliated with the Kataeb Party and others affiliated with the Syrian Social National Party.
It underlined the importance of freedom of expression for all sides, “strongly condemned” the violence that broke out on Monday on and off campus.
What started as a traditional political and cultural student activity was exploited to practice violence, which contradicts AUB's mission and values, said university President Fadlo Khuri.
AUB supports freedom of expression of all students and is committed to providing an atmosphere that encourages different political and cultural views and it has been doing so for generations, he added in a statement.
He thanked the students for exercising restraint out of consideration for their colleagues and university.
“The safety of the students, faculty, and staff is our greatest priority,” he declared.
The dispute started when the Kataeb students were commemorating “President Bashir Gemayel Day” at the university where they attempted to erect a poster of the slain official. They were then met by taunts by the SSNP students, said a Kataeb statement on Monday.
A scuffle soon ensued, which prompted the intervention of security forces.
No one was injured in the incident.
M.T.
Source: Naharnet
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