Gemayel Meets Bou Saab as Talks Intensify Ahead of January Election Session

Kataeb Party leader Samy Gemayel met with Deputy Speaker of Parliament Elias Bou Saab as part of ongoing consultations ahead of critical developments in Lebanon, particularly the presidential election session scheduled for January 9. 

Following the meeting held at Gemayel's office in Bikfaya, Bou Saab highlighted the importance of this week, describing it as pivotal for addressing both domestic and regional challenges.

"Given the significant upcoming milestones for Lebanon, this week is crucial," he said. "It will involve communication with political stakeholders concerned with the presidential file, as well as discussions on the repercussions of recent events in Syria, their impact on Lebanon, and ways to safeguard its stability. This includes electing a president, forming a government, and preserving Lebanon’s unity and sovereignty."

Bou Saab explained that his meeting with the Kataeb chief was a continuation of previous discussions aimed at finding a resolution to the prolonged presidential impasse, emphasizing that this week would be decisive for negotiations and consultations to identify presidential candidates who can garner support from all political factions. He dismissed the idea of one faction overpowering another or imposing a candidate without agreement among key opposition groups.

"The focus today is centered on finding candidates that can secure more than 68 votes, ensuring the election of a president during the January 9 session," Bou Saab stated, warning against attempts to disrupt the session, whether through security-related incidents or otherwise, and stressing that Lebanon is at a critical juncture and cannot afford further instability.

When asked about the quorum required for the January 9 session, Bou Saab emphasized that it is the responsibility of parliamentary blocs and MPs to ensure the session proceeds.

"Efforts are being exerted to prevent the loss of quorum," he confirmed, adding that walking out of the session would amount to an evasion of reality.