Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar said on Monday that the electoral process in northern Lebanon and Akkar had largely proceeded without major issues, despite facing several challenges along the way.

Speaking at a press conference, Al-Hajjar acknowledged that security-related incidents, which began on Saturday and continued into Sunday, had marred the process. He outlined that there had been altercations at polling stations, with authorities receiving 675 complaints and inquiries, documenting 143 security incidents, and recording around 120 instances of clashes and confrontations.

“The electoral process in the north and Akkar went well overall, despite some difficulties,” Al-Hajjar said. “While the security situation was not without its complications, the process was largely smooth.”

Al-Hajjar also provided figures on voter turnout, which he said stood at 43.29% across the two regions. Specifically, voter participation was 37.25% in the north, while Akkar saw a higher turnout of 49.33%.

The minister confirmed that seven individuals were arrested in connection with security incidents during the elections. Additionally, 15 cases of suspected bribery are under investigation, and authorities are probing a suspected case of election fraud, with one person arrested so far.

Among the more concerning incidents during the election were reports of celebratory gunfire in some areas. Al-Hajjar said that security forces had been instructed to pursue and arrest those responsible for the shootings.

“A significant number of those involved have been identified,” he said. “The Lebanese Army began conducting raids late last night, and so far, 34 individuals have been arrested in connection with the gunfire.”

Al-Hajjar stressed the importance of regulating firearms, reiterating that the possession of weapons without proper authorization is illegal. He further emphasized that the Lebanese government is committed to asserting control over the entire country through its security forces, under the leadership of both the President and the government.

“We are determined to enforce the authority of the state, and this is actively being pursued,” he said. “This effort is ongoing, and the government remains resolute in its commitment to restoring full control.”

The minister also confirmed that all individuals responsible for the gunfire incidents are now in the custody of the judiciary. Efforts to prevent future incidents are being intensified, with additional arrests made and weapons seized by the Lebanese Army on Monday.

Despite the security concerns, Al-Hajjar pointed out that the elections were held under much better conditions than in previous years. He noted that past elections had seen more serious issues, such as the destruction of ballot boxes. This time, however, the government took proactive steps to ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

“We took all necessary precautions to ensure the ballot boxes remained secure, and we are confident that the results are being properly counted,” he said. “While some individuals attempted to engage in bribery and other violations, State Security intervened promptly and arrested those involved.”