Jumblat Hails Franjieh's 'Frank' Interview

Progressive Socialist Party leader MP Walid Jumblat praised on Friday the interview given by Marada Movement leader MP Suleiman Franjieh, deeming his remarks as “realistic.”

He said via Twitter: “His interview was frank and steered away from the empty political slogans of some officials.”

He also lauded Franjieh's “practical approach” on various issues.

“The joining of opposing forces in obstructing the presidential elections is harming Lebanon's stability, institutions, and economy,” he added.

Franjieh gave a much anticipated television interview on Thursday during which he announced his candidacy for the presidency.

He addressed a number of issues, most notably ties with his ally in the March 8 camp, Change and Reform bloc chief MP Michel Aoun, who is also a presidential candidate.

Franjieh's nomination alongside Aoun has drawn speculation of differences between the two officials.

The Marada leader described on Thursday his ties with the lawmaker as “abnormal,” and that they have been that way for two years.

Franjieh emerged as presidential candidate as part of an initiative launched by Mustaqbal Movement leader MP Saad Hariri aimed at ending the political deadlock in Lebanon.

Lebanon has been without a president since the term of Michel Suleiman ended without the election of a successor.

Ongoing disputes between the rival March 8 and 14 camps over compromise candidate have thwarted the polls.

M.T.

D.A.