Polls closed Sunday evening as the second round of Lebanon’s municipal and mayoral elections came to a close, initiating the vote-counting process across the North Lebanon and Akkar governorates.

Voting ended at 7:00 p.m. local time, following a day marked by moderate turnout, tight security, and scattered incidents. Throughout the day, voter participation varied across polling centers as citizens cast ballots for municipal councils and local mukhtars.

Security forces were heavily deployed around voting centers to ensure the democratic process proceeded smoothly. While minor scuffles and technical complaints were reported, officials stated that most issues were quickly addressed.

According to preliminary data issued by the Ministry of Interior, voter turnout across various districts of Northern Lebanon and Akkar is as follows:

• Akkar: 47.81%

• Tripoli: 26.70%

• Zgharta: 39.22%

• Bsharri: 32.45%

• Minyeh-Dinniyeh: 51.17%

• Koura: 39.12%

• Batroun: 49.71%

Accordingly, the final turnout rate stood at 35.9% in North Lebanon and 47.3% in Akkar. 

Speaking with reporters after polls closed, Interior Minister Ahmad Al-Hajjar encouraged citizens to remain engaged in the democratic process with civility as the vote-counting phase began.

He emphasized that authorities would take a firm stance on any violations.

“We will be strict in protecting the ballot boxes and overseeing the counting process,” he said. “Holding elections on time is, in itself, a win for the rule of law and for local development.”

The minister also warned against electoral bribery and violence, stating that security agencies would not tolerate any infractions.

Al-Hajjar further noted that his team had taken swift action in response to reported shortcomings, including the failure of some staff to report to voting centers on time.

"All personnel have been contacted and reminded that this is a national responsibility. We have made every effort to ensure the election proceeded smoothly," he confirmed. "This electoral process is not just an event, but a national duty for all."

He added that complaints filed during the vote "did not exceed 500," most of which were administrative. However, he acknowledged that security-related incidents were somewhat higher, attributing them to the high stakes and intensity of local contests.