Aoun: Whoever Sparked Sidon Unrest Should Not Be Allowed to Remain Free
Free Patriotic Movement leader MP Michel Aoun demanded on Tuesday that whoever sparked Sunday's unrest in the southern city of Sidon be arrested.
He said after the Change and Reform bloc's weekly meeting: “Whoever created the instability should not be allowed to roam free.”
He made his remarks in reference to Salafist cleric Sheikh Ahmed al-Asir.
The MP added that his demand does not stem from the need for revenge, but the need to control the security situation in the city.
“I lived in Sidon for seven years and I know that its residents are peaceful,” continued Aoun.
An armed clash broke out in Sidon on Sunday between Asir's supporters and those of Hizbullah.
Two of the cleric's companions were killed in the unrest, as well as an Egyptian national, as they were attempting to take down banners they considered offensive.
“Those who spark the unrest and announce the formation of a military wing should not remain free,” emphasized Aoun while referring to claims that Asir is planning on announcing the formation of his own armed group.
The MP added sarcastically: “I could gather some 200 followers and declare the establishment of a military wing.”
Those violating security should be arrested similar to what happened in Beirut, the North, and the Bekaa, he demanded.
Addressing the March 14-led opposition's demand for the formation of a new neutral government, the FPM leader said: “A new government could be formed through dialogue, not surrendering and resignation.”
Moreover, he noted that there is no such thing as neutrality, adding: “Let them name ten neutral figures who can be assigned to the new cabinet.”
“Why should we chose neutral figures? What if they don't respect the wishes of the voters?” Aoun wondered.
Source: Naharnet
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