By Cynthia Abah
Pope Francis has called on Lebanese politicians to urgently elect a new president, emphasizing the need to restore effective governance and end the country’s prolonged political paralysis.
Addressing the faithful at Saint Peter’s Square after the Angelus prayer on Sunday, the pontiff made a heartfelt appeal: “I address an urgent invitation to all Lebanese politicians to elect the president of the republic immediately.”
Lebanon has been without a president since October 2022, following the end of Michel Aoun’s term.
Rival political factions have since failed to agree on a successor, leaving the country in a state of deadlock.
The absence of leadership has exacerbated Lebanon’s economic and social crises, plunging much of its population into poverty.
The vacuum in governance has stalled critical reforms necessary to combat hyperinflation, reduce public debt, and rebuild crumbling infrastructure.
International donors, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), have conditioned financial aid on the implementation of these reforms, which remain stalled due to the ongoing political impasse.
Pope Francis has frequently expressed concern for Lebanon, describing it as a symbol of religious coexistence in the Middle East.
His latest appeal underscores the Vatican’s growing alarm over Lebanon’s instability and its potential impact on the wider region.
The pope’s call aligns with mounting international pressure on Lebanese leaders to set aside political rivalries and prioritize the welfare of their nation.
