Hariri Marks March 14 Uprising Anniversary

Prime Minister Saad Hariri marked the 12th anniversary of March 14 alliance on Tuesday and said it has set the foundations for Lebanon's free, sovereign and independent political life.

“Today we celebrate March 14 Day, the day that founded our political life. On this day we called for freedom, sovereignty, independence, truth and justice,” said Hariri marking the occasion in a video released on social media.

“Concerning truth and justice, we have now an international tribunal,” continued Hariri, referring to the Special Tribunal for Lebanon that was established to carry out investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the February 14, 2005 assassination of his father ex-PM Rafik Hariri.

“I ask myself every day: How do we preserve sovereignty, independence and freedom? In order to achieve this, it is imperative that we protect Lebanon and the Lebanese, without whom we cannot preserve sovereignty, independence and freedom. This is why I am working day and night in my political life to preserve them.”

He added: “I would like to say that this day remains engraved in my mind, in my life and my heart, and I hope that it will remain engraved in your hearts and minds too.”

March 14 coalition takes its name from the historic demonstration in downtown Beirut's Martyrs Square on March 14, 2005 that ultimately led to the withdrawal of Syrian forces from Lebanon in the aftermath of ex-Premier Rafik Hariri's assassination.

Several political and media figures were also killed or escaped assassination after Hariri's Feb. 2005 murder.