Patriarch John X of Antioch Calls for Swift Presidential Election in Lebanon

OCP News Service – 08/06/2024

Balamand- Lebanon: Patriarch John X of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East has urged Lebanese authorities to prioritize the election of a new president.

A Call for Responsibility

In a statement released on June 5, 2024, following a meeting with bishops at the Saint John of Damascus Institute, Patriarch John X emphasized, “We call on everyone, beginning with the authorities, to assume full national responsibility and elect a president of the republic as soon as possible.”

Lebanon’s Political Stalemate

Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, further exacerbating the country’s ongoing economic and political turmoil. The ongoing deadlock in parliament has prevented the election of a new head of state.

Church’s Role in National Dialogue

The Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East is a major Christian denomination in Lebanon, and Patriarch John X has been a vocal advocate for peace and stability in the country. The meeting with the bishops likely addressed broader church concerns related to the nation’s challenges.

Urgency for Change

The Patriarch’s statement underscores the urgency for Lebanese authorities to break the political impasse and hold presidential elections. A new president is seen as crucial for addressing the country’s complex challenges and potentially paving the way for a brighter future.

Source:

OCP News Service